In a shocking development that has ignited widespread debate within Nigeria’s Catholic community, Sr. Kinse Shako Anastasia, a former nun from the Auchi Diocese in Edo State, has been dismissed from her religious congregation following her public allegations of systemic sexual harassment against Reverend Sisters by priests. The incident, which unfolded at Veritas University in Abuja, highlights ongoing concerns about abuse and silencing within the Church. This story not only sheds light on the personal trauma faced by Sr. Anastasia but also raises broader questions about clerical celibacy, power dynamics, and the need for reform in the Catholic hierarchy.

 

The Allegations That Sparked the Controversy

On August 24, 2025, Sr. Kinse Anastasia took to social media to voice her grievances in a passionate post titled “Reverend Sisters Are Not Ornaments in Habit, They Are Not Bedmates for Priests, They Are Not Priests’ Wives.”

She accused Catholic priests of treating nuns as mere “ornaments” and pressuring them into sexual relationships, viewing them as unofficial “wives” or “bedmates.”

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According to her, this harassment is pervasive, with Church leaders allegedly silencing victims and protecting perpetrators instead of addressing the issues.

 

Sr. Anastasia, who was affiliated with the Mother of Perpetual Help of the Archangel Sisters (MOPHAS) and employed at Veritas University, claimed that her outcry stemmed from personal experiences and observations within the Auchi Diocese.

She emphasized that nuns are “women of God” dedicated to service, not objects for clerical exploitation, and called for the Church to “do better” under God’s watchful eye.

Her revelations quickly went viral, drawing support from some quarters while attracting backlash from others within the congregation and diocese.

 

The Church’s Response and Sr. Anastasia’s Dismissal

Rather than investigating her claims or providing support, the Church’s reaction has been swift and punitive. On August 29, 2025, MOPHAS’s superior general, Sr. Maryanne Ogwokhademhe, and secretary general, Sr. Rosemary Odion, issued a statement announcing Sr. Anastasia’s formal dismissal.

They revealed that she had “defected” to Islam, adopting the name Salamatu, and rejected attempts at correction.

The congregation disassociated itself from her allegations, arguing that individual failings should not tarnish the broader work of clergy and Religious.

Additionally, Sr. Anastasia has been accused of having mental health issues, rendering her “incapable of carrying out her duties.”

Sources close to the matter suggest this label was used to discredit her, leaving her traumatized and reportedly suicidal.

The Bishop of Auchi Diocese and her superiors have been criticized for victimizing her instead of protecting her and probing the accused priests.

 

Fr. Michael Umoh, national director of social communications for the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, acknowledged the allegations but stated that their veracity remains undetermined.

He expressed the Church’s “love” for Sr. Anastasia and called for prayers, while noting that her claims did not specifically involve priests at Veritas University, where she had left months prior.

Veritas University has not issued a direct statement on her sacking, but reports confirm she is no longer affiliated with the institution.

 

Public Backlash and Division in the Nigerian Catholic Church

The scandal has deeply divided the Nigerian Catholic Church, with some faithful supporting Sr. Anastasia’s call for safe reporting mechanisms and accountability.

Social media has been abuzz with discussions, including threats and backlash from the congregation she served.
Critics argue that labeling whistleblowers as “mad” perpetuates a culture of silence and victim-blaming.

Others defend the Church, pointing out that her departure from Catholicism undermines her credibility.

This division mirrors broader tensions, as seen in public reactions where some demand protection for Sr. Anastasia, viewing her as a brave voice against entrenched abuse.

 

Broader Background: A History of Abuse Scandals in the Catholic Church

This case is not isolated. The Catholic Church has faced global scrutiny over sexual abuse, including the exploitation of nuns by priests—a issue Pope Francis acknowledged in 2019.

In Nigeria, prominent voices like Sr. Veronica Openibo have spoken out at Vatican summits, rebuking the hierarchy for cover-ups and calling for transparency.

Reports from organizations like NPR and PBS highlight stories of nuns enduring rape, forced abortions, and systemic silencing, often in Africa and Asia where power imbalances are stark.

In 2019, the Vatican issued laws mandating abuse reporting, but implementation remains inconsistent.

 

Nigeria’s Church has seen similar scandals, with Wikipedia documenting cases of hierarchy failing to report abusers.
Scholars link these issues to celibacy rules and cultural factors within Catholicism.

 

Calls for Reform and the Debate on Clerical Marriage

Amid the uproar, some, including the original poster, advocate for allowing priests and nuns to marry while serving, questioning the origins of celibacy laws rooted in medieval Church traditions.

Proponents argue this could reduce abuse, while conservatives maintain celibacy as a sacred discipline.

 

As this story develops, many are urging the Catholic Church to prioritize victim support over institutional protection. Sr. Anastasia’s plight underscores the urgent need for reform to ensure nuns’ voices are heard and protected. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding scandal in Nigeria’s Catholic community.