The long-running tensions between fiery Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Camillus Ejike Mbaka, and the Enugu Catholic Diocese have flared again, with the Church issuing a strongly worded rebuttal to what it calls his “misleading utterances” that risk confusing the faithful and undermining unity.
In a statement released by its Communications Department, the Diocese said it was compelled to “set the record straight” after Mbaka’s August 1, 2025 public address, in which he made 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 read.
Pastoral Leave and Political Utterances
The Diocese defended its directive for Mbaka to embark on a 30-day pastoral retreat at a monastery, saying it was “not intended to harm him or the Adoration Ministry” but rather a “necessary pastoral measure rooted in fraternal charity” for spiritual renewal and to reconsider “inflammatory political utterances” that contravene canon law.
“This leave was never about shutting down Adoration Ministry,” the Church insisted, stressing that any claims to the contrary are “both inaccurate and contrary to the spirit of ecclesiastical obedience.”
Vandalism of Church Property
The Diocese also countered Mbaka’s denial that Adoration Ministry supporters vandalized 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
Rejecting suggestions of a conspiracy against Mbaka, the Diocese emphasized the Unum Presbyterium—a sacred priestly fraternity that demands unity with the bishop. “Unfounded public accusations against Church authorities risk undermining ecclesial unity and confusing the faithful,” it warned.
“All priests, including Fr. Mbaka, have made promises of obedience to their bishops… It is expected that such obedience be upheld, not only privately but also publicly,” the Diocese added.
Dispute Over Brother’s Marriage
On Mbaka’s claim that it facilitated his brother’s marriage against his objection, the Diocese said personal opposition does not constitute a canonical impediment. “No priest, including Fr. Mbaka, has the authority to unilaterally approve or veto sacramental celebrations based on personal sentiments,” the statement asserted, adding that all canonical investigations and pre-marital preparations were properly conducted.
Allegations Against ‘Princess’
The Diocese described as “gross disinformation” Mbaka’s claim that a woman named “Princess” was influencing the Diocesan Curia to close the Adoration Ministry. “No internal or external interference from any person or institution can influence, inform, or direct the decisions of the Curia,” it said. “It is an insult to the hierarchy of the Church to suggest otherwise.”
Call for Renewal
The statement concluded with a call for reconciliation: “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.”
