The Catholic Diocese of Makurdi has expressed deep disapproval of the use of Catholic clerical robes by students of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (formerly Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi), during a recent drama performance. The students wore the robes as part of an activity marking their exit from the university, sparking significant controversy when images from the performance surfaced on social media.
In a statement issued by the Catholic Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria (CAMPAN), Makurdi Diocese, the diocese condemned the action, calling it a “gross disrespect” to the Catholic faith and the revered traditions it upholds. CAMPAN viewed the portrayal as an improper representation of Catholic religious figures, particularly the revered Reverend Sisters, known for their modesty and commitment to their religious vows.
Signed by Hembadoon Orsar, Chairman of CAMPAN, the statement said, “This action shows gross disrespect to the Catholic faith and everything that it holds dear. It is a mockery of our revered Reverend Sisters, who are perpetually decent and models in their dressing, covering despite their outstanding physical beauty for the sake of glorifying God.”
The diocese raised concerns about the portrayal of the Reverend Sisters, criticizing the fact that the students wore the clerical robes in a way that did not reflect the modesty and decency associated with the religious order. The statement highlighted that in the history of the Catholic Church, no nun would ever wear a dress that goes above the knees, as was seen in the performance.
The diocese expressed particular dismay that a university, which should be a “citadel of learning,” allowed such an uncensored display. CAMPAN noted that in contrast, the Nigerian film industry takes meticulous care to censor films and remove negative or offensive elements before they are released to the public. The association questioned why the university failed to apply similar standards to ensure that the portrayal of religious figures was respectful and appropriate.
CAMPAN emphasized that religious symbols and figures should always be treated with respect and care, as mishandling them could lead to misunderstandings and disrespect toward religious communities. The use of Catholic clerical attire in the drama performance was seen as a deliberate affront to the Catholic Church, and the association urged greater sensitivity to religious symbols and practices, particularly in academic institutions.
The statement also highlighted the importance of understanding the delicate nature of religious issues, which can easily lead to offense if not handled with care. CAMPAN pointed out that freedom of expression, while a right, has boundaries, especially when it intersects with the rights and beliefs of others. “While it is a free world, your freedom ends where another person’s own starts, thereby creating a thin line between yours and that of another. One must be careful not to cross the line,” the statement read.
The association criticized the university for failing in its responsibility to instill the necessary awareness in its students regarding religious sensitivity. CAMPAN suggested that the incident reflected a broader issue within the institution, where the fragility and consequences of religious matters are not sufficiently taught. This failure, according to the association, has led to what it described as “brazen disrespect” toward the Catholic Church.
The diocese further pointed out that the university’s decision to allow the students to use Catholic clerical robes in this manner without proper censorship showed a lack of understanding and respect for religious boundaries. The portrayal, CAMPAN stated, was not only disrespectful to the Catholic Church but could also incite further misunderstandings and potentially harmful depictions of other religious groups in the future.
CAMPAN, which is responsible for communicating the values of the Catholic Church and protecting its image, noted that the students should have been guided by the principles of decency, especially when portraying religious figures. It added that while there may be different standards of decency in various contexts, respect for religious symbols should never be compromised.
“The law of indecency and obscenity is not universal, but it is good to note that good character upbringing should teach us never to go beyond the acceptable limits in whatever circumstance,” the statement read.
The association concluded by reiterating its stance that the portrayal was a mockery of the Catholic faith and Reverend Sisters, urging educational institutions, particularly universities, to take greater care in ensuring that public performances do not cross the line of disrespect toward any religion.
The incident has sparked significant reactions across social media, with many criticizing the students for their apparent lack of respect for religious symbols. Some commenters expressed concern that the students did not consider the sensitivities of religious communities when using clerical robes as part of a public performance.
As of now, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University has not issued an official statement addressing the controversy. However, the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi has called on the institution to take responsibility for the incident and to ensure that such portrayals are not allowed to happen again in the future. The diocese also urged the university to educate its students about the importance of religious respect and sensitivity in public displays and performances.
CAMPAN, in its role as the media arm of the diocese, emphasized that it would continue to defend the image of the Catholic Church and communicate its values effectively. It reiterated that while artistic expression is important, it must not come at the cost of disrespecting religious beliefs or symbols.
In closing, the statement reminded the public and institutions that respect for religion should be paramount, especially in a multi-religious society like Nigeria, where religious tensions can easily arise. The diocese urged all individuals and institutions to act with care and responsibility when dealing with religious matters to maintain peace and mutual respect in society.
