The longstanding friction between the fiery Reverend Father Camillus Ejike Mbaka and the Enugu Catholic Diocese has intensified once again.
The Diocese has issued a forceful response to what it calls Mbaka’s “misleading utterances,” warning that these statements risk confusing the faithful and undermining Church unity.
According to a statement issued by the Diocese’s Communications Department, officials felt compelled to “set the record straight” following Mbaka’s public address on August 1, 2025, during which he levelled several accusations against Church authorities.
“The allegations made by Fr. Mbaka, particularly those concerning the governance and disciplinary actions of the Diocese, require a clear and measured response to ensure that the faithful are not misled and the unity of the Church is preserved,” the statement reads.
“Pastoral Leave” Mischaracterised
The Diocese defended its directive requiring Mbaka to undertake a 30-day pastoral retreat:
It was “not intended to harm him or the Adoration Ministry” but was a “necessary pastoral measure rooted in fraternal charity” aimed at encouraging spiritual renewal and prompting him to reconsider “inflammatory political utterances” that violate canon law.
They adamantly rejected claims that the move was designed to shut down the ministry:
“This leave was never about shutting down Adoration Ministry. … Any claims to the contrary are ‘both inaccurate and contrary to the spirit of ecclesiastical obedience.’”
Vandalism and Reparation
The Diocese also responded to Mbaka’s denial of Adoration Ministry supporters’ involvement in vandalising Church property during 2021 protests.
“Pictures and videos clearly showed the Bishop’s Court at Igboeze Street and buildings at Holy Ghost Cathedral were vandalized. It was a desecration that required an act of reparation,” the statement declared.
Unity and Obedience Under Threat
Dismissing suggestions of a conspiracy against Mbaka, the Diocese emphasised the principle of Unum Presbyterium, a sacred fraternity among priests that requires unity with the bishop.
“Unfounded public accusations against Church authorities risk undermining ecclesial unity and confusing the faithful,” the statement warned.
It reminded all clergy, including Mbaka, of their promise of obedience to their bishop, both in private and in public.
On His Brother’s Marriage
Addressing Mbaka’s contention that the Diocese approved his brother’s marriage despite his objections, Church leaders reiterated:
“No priest … has the authority to unilaterally approve or veto sacramental celebrations based on personal sentiments.”
They affirmed that all canonical investigations and pre-marital procedures had been properly observed.
Allegations Against ‘Princess’ Deemed False
Mbaka’s claim of undue influence by a woman named “Princess” over the Diocesan Curia was promptly dismissed by the Diocese as:
“Gross disinformation. No internal or external interference from any person or institution can influence, inform, or direct the decisions of the Curia. It is an insult to the hierarchy of the Church to suggest otherwise.”
A Call for Reconciliation
The statement concluded with a plea for healing and spiritual renewal:
“The Catholic Diocese of Enugu remains steadfast in prayer, seeking divine guidance and spiritual renewal for Rev. Fr. Camillus Ejike Mbaka. May the Holy Spirit guide us all towards humility, peace, and mutual understanding.”
