Alvin M. Keeling 
The Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Bishop Alfred Martins, has recalled Reverend Father James Anelu, who was suspended for allegedly banning Igbo songs in his parish.
The Director of Social Communications for the Archdiocese of Lagos, the Rev. Anthony Godonu revealed in a statement on Wednesday, adding that the church’s investigation showed that the information posted on social media that prompted the disciplinary action did not paint the full picture of the incident.
He said: “The Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Bishop Alfred Adewale Martins, has recalled Reverend Father James Anelu, Pastor of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Ewu Owa, from the indefinite administrative leave to which he was sent on February 7. , 2022.
“Father. Anelu has gone on leave following allegations that he has banned the singing of Igbo songs in the parish.
“Following a thorough investigation carried out in consultation with the Parish Pastoral Council, the Parish Laity Council and the ad hoc committee set up by the Archbishop, it has been discovered that the social media post which has caused the administrative leave did not paint a full picture of the incident.
“Father James has therefore been asked to return to the parish in order to address the situation created by the social media post and to foster reconciliation and unity in the parish.
“In the spirit of Lent, he urged all 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 on all of God’s children to remember Fr. Anelu and his parishioners in their prayers.
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