The Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Ewu-Owa, Gberigbe, Ikorodu, Lagos Priest, Rv, Fr. James Anelu who was suspended some weeks ago for allegedly banning Igbo songs and choruses in his parish has been reinstated.
Recall that the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Alfred Martins, in a ‘’disclaimer’’, had directed the priest to go on an ‘’indefinite leave of absence’’ on February 7.
Anelu was reported to have banned Igbo songs and choruses in his parish, arguing that the excesses of Ndigbo must be cautioned
His reinstatement was announced in a statement by the Director of Social Communications, Lagos Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu, on Wednesday.
According to the statement:’’The Catholic Archibishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins, has recalled Rev. Fr. James Anelu, the Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Ewu-Owa from the indefinite administrative leave to which he was sent on February 7th, 2022.
Fr. ANELU proceeded on the leave following allegations that he banned the singing of Igbo songs in the Parish.
‘’ Following a thorough investigation conducted in consultation with the Parish Pastoral Council, the Parish Laity Council, and Ad hoc Committee set up by the Archbishop, it was discovered that the posting on the social media that brought about administrative leave did not give a complete picture of the incident.
‘’Fr. James has, therefore, been asked to return to the Parish in order to remedy the situation created by the social media posting and bring about reconciliation and unity in the parish.
‘’In the spirit of the Lenten Season, he urged all the parishioners to work together in collaboration with the Parish priest for the greater glory of God and the good of the community.
He also called’’ upon all God’s children to remember Fr. Anelu and his parishioners in their prayers’’.