A Bishop has apologised for the comments of a priest who claimed that the same-sex marriage referendum outcome was the result of demonic interference.

Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnoise, Fr Francis Duffy, apologised for comments made by Nigerian priest, Father Joseph Okere during mass in St Mel’s Cathedral, Longford.

Although the exact comments made by Okere were not repeated in the apology, witnesses claim the priest said that May’s same-sex marriage referendum was “evidence the devil was at work in Ireland”.

The apology was issued after Longford LGBT expressed dismay on social media at the words used in the homily, reports Shannonside. It has been claimed the priest said that the referendum result “in conjunction with marriage breakdown and divorce is leading to the destruction of humanity”.

In a statement Longford LGBT said they were greatly saddened and disappointed over what they describe as “the extreme view” saying they appreciate that Fr Okere is reflecting church teaching on these matters.

Homosexual acts are illegal in Nigeria and carry a maximum penalty of 14 years’ imprisonment.