The Church of Nigeria has taken a decisive stand against what it calls a ‘serious departure from biblical truth,’ cutting all ties with the Church of Wales following the election of its first openly lesbian Archbishop. Primate Henry Ndukuba declares this move non-negotiable—but is this a righteous stand or a widening schism in global Anglicanism?
By Nij Martin
The Anglican Communion is no stranger to controversy, but the recent election of Bishop Cherry Vann as the first openly lesbian Archbishop of Wales has ignited a firestorm—one that has led the Church of Nigeria to sever all ties with its Welsh counterpart.
In a strongly worded statement, the Primate of Nigeria, Archbishop Henry Ndukuba, condemned Vann’s appointment as “an abomination” and a blatant rejection of biblical orthodoxy. Speaking at the 14th Church of Nigeria Conference of Chancellors, Ndukuba drew parallels to the 2003 consecration of Gene Robinson—the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church (USA)—which similarly triggered a global Anglican rift.
“Just as we took steps after Gene Robinson’s election, we are now severing every tie with the Church of Wales,” Ndukuba declared. “Their so-called wisdom is rebellion against God.”
A Line in the Sand: Orthodoxy vs. Revisionism
The Church of Nigeria, representing over 18 million Anglicans, has long positioned itself as a bulwark against liberal theology within the Communion. Ndukuba’s condemnation reflects a broader conservative backlash against Western churches embracing LGBTQ+ clergy and same-sex unions.
Vann, a veteran priest and the third female bishop in Wales, lives with her female civil partner—a fact that Nigerian church leaders say disqualifies her from spiritual leadership. “How can a practising homosexual shepherd God’s flock?” Ndukuba questioned, citing Romans 1:28 on divine judgment against moral deviation.
GAFCON’s Growing Influence
Nigeria isn’t standing alone. The Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON), a conservative coalition representing 40 million Anglicans, has rallied behind Nigeria’s decision. GAFCON, which opposes same-sex unions and female bishops in some contexts, now serves as an alternative network for disaffected conservatives.
“We stand with faithful Anglicans in Wales who reject this heresy,” Ndukuba vowed, signaling Nigeria’s intent to expand its missionary efforts in Europe—including Germany and the Netherlands—where liberal theology dominates.
Wales’ Defense: “Inclusion is Inevitable”
Meanwhile, Archbishop-elect Vann remains unshaken. In interviews, she has called same-sex church marriages “inevitable” while acknowledging theological disagreements. “I must respect traditionalists, but the Spirit is moving,” she told The Guardian.
Critics, however, argue that Wales’ trajectory—following the Church of England’s cautious stance on gay blessings—risks alienating the Global South, where 80% of Anglicans reside.
What This Means for the Anglican Future
This rupture isn’t just about one appointment—it’s a symptom of a deepening divide. While Western churches push for inclusivity, African and Asian Anglicans demand doctrinal purity.
Will there be reconciliation? Ndukuba’s answer is clear: “Only repentance can restore unity.”
For now, Nigeria’s message is unmistakable: When faith and culture clash, Scripture wins.