Daniel Ezeigwe, the media aide to the Anambra State First Lady, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has addressed the controversy surrounding Peter Obi's claims of being a godparent to Soludo's children. Ezeigwe stated that Obi's supporters are misinterpreting Catholic canon law to suit their narrative. According to Ezeigwe, in the Catholic Church, a baptismal godparent, or sponsor, is a person formally chosen to undertake responsibilities for the person being baptized.
The issue began when the Anambra State Government disputed Obi's claims, leading to reactions from within and outside the state. Various groups and individuals have given different meanings and definitions to who a "godfather, godmother, or godparent" can be according to the Catholic Church. Ezeigwe's statement aims to clarify that Obi's supporters are interpreting the canon law on "godparenting" to suit their narrative, rather than adhering to the Church's actual definition.
Ezeigwe explained that Canon 873 of the Code of Canon Law provides for one sponsor, either male or female, or one male and one female sponsor. The responsibility belongs to the person designated as the sponsor. Ezeigwe emphasized that if a woman is chosen as the godmother of a child, her husband does not automatically become the child's godfather simply because she is married to him.
The Catholic Church's rules make a clear distinction, according to Ezeigwe. Canon 877 requires the names of the sponsors to be recorded in the baptismal register, alongside the names of the minister and the parents. Ezeigwe stated that if a particular woman was designated as the child's baptismal sponsor, that is what she is: the child's godmother. Her husband's consent or presence at the ceremony does not make him a baptismal godfather.
Ezeigwe further clarified that if two people were formally designated as sponsors, both would have a recognized role. However, one cannot simply manufacture a second godparent because the person chosen happens to be married. Ezeigwe emphasized that this is not about sentiment, politics, or personal loyalty, but about what the Catholic Church actually teaches and records.
Ezeigwe's statement concluded by urging Peter Obi's supporters to be precise in their arguments. He stated that the relevant question is: Who was formally designated as the child's baptismal sponsor? That is what the Church recognizes, not who the sponsor is married to, who attended the ceremony, or what political supporters later decide the relationship should mean.
The clarification by Ezeigwe aims to put an end to the controversy surrounding Obi's claims. The issue has generated significant debate, with various individuals and groups weighing in on the matter. Ezeigwe's statement provides a clear explanation of the Catholic Church's stance on godparenting, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the Church's actual definition rather than personal interpretations.
Key points
- Daniel Ezeigwe clarifies Catholic canon law on godparenting, rebutting claims by Peter Obi's supporters.
- Ezeigwe emphasizes that only the person formally designated as a sponsor is recognized as a godparent.
- The controversy began when the Anambra State Government disputed Obi's claims of being a godparent to Soludo's children.
