This study explores the impact of political interference on the spiritual mission, moral authority, and unity of the Church in Enugu State, Nigeria, with a specific focus on the 2023 general elections. Enugu State, a predominantly Christian region, has historically witnessed a deep intersection between religion and politics, where religious leaders, particularly from the Catholic and Anglican Churches, wield significant influence over both the spiritual and political landscapes. In recent years, this influence has extended beyond spiritual guidance, with religious leaders openly endorsing political candidates, turning religious platforms into spaces for political advocacy. The study adopts a phenomenological research design to capture the lived experiences of both religious leaders and congregants regarding political interference in the Church. In-depth interviews and thematic analysis, guided by Colaizzi’s method, were used to examine how political endorsements by religious leaders affect the spiritual and religious experiences of congregants. Additionally, secondary data sources such as textbooks, newspapers, and internet resources provided a broader socio-political context for understanding the dynamics between religion and politics in Enugu State. Findings reveal that political interference has significantly eroded the moral authority of religious leaders, as congregants increasingly perceive their spiritual leaders as politically biased. Furthermore, the study highlights the deepening divisions within Christian communities, as congregants are often pressured to align with the political preferences of their religious leaders, leading to tensions and fragmentation within churches. The study concludes that while religious leaders in Enugu State continue to hold considerable sway over political matters, their increasing involvement in politics compromises their spiritual mission and undermines their role as impartial moral guides. The study recommends that religious leaders maintain a clear distinction between their spiritual responsibilities and political advocacy to preserve the integrity of the Church.

Keywords: Spirituality; Politics; Political Interference; The Church;