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In a renewed call for peace, tolerance, and respect for religious rights, the Guard Time Information (GTI), a nationwide network of human rights activists, has called on Nigerians to uphold the constitutional guarantees of religious freedom and foster interfaith harmony across the country.
Speaking at a public enlightenment forum organized by GTI, its National Chairman, Mr. Bibi Oduku, emphasized that every Nigerian, regardless of tribe or faith, has a constitutional right to practice their religion without fear of discrimination or persecution.
“There is no dichotomy between Nigerian tribes and religions,” Oduku stated. “Both Christianity and Islam play a significant role in our national identity, politics, and social life. Our Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to religious freedom.”
Oduku cited key provisions in the 1999 Constitution that protect religious freedom. Section 38, he explained, guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, including the right to change one’s faith. Section 10 further prohibits the government from adopting any religion as a state religion.
Despite these protections, GTI’s nationwide research has revealed persistent challenges, including intimidation, abuse, and restrictions on religious freedom in certain localities and government parastatals. “Even in schools, we’ve seen cases where students and staff face restrictions on their religious practices,” Oduku lamented.
Addressing the audience, human rights lawyer Musa Bala Esq and Barrister Muhammad Yakubu stressed that Nigerians have historically lived in peace, working, studying, and conducting business together across religious lines. “There is no division between us,” Yakubu noted. “We have understanding between Christians and Muslims. Misunderstandings are few and isolated.”
Religious organizations have also stepped up efforts to promote religious tolerance and protect citizens’ rights. The Nigeria Interfaith Coalition for Freedom of Religion or Belief (NICFORB), led by its National Coordinator, Mr. Felix Joseph Samari, is at the forefront of promoting interfaith dialogue.
The Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN), under the leadership of National Amir, Comrade Mustapha Tajudeen, continues to advocate for the rights of both Muslim and non-Muslim students across Nigerian campuses in partnership with GTI. Similarly, Christian-focused organizations like the Association of Christian Schools International and the Foundation for Student Mission are working with GTI to promote Christian education while fostering interfaith understanding.
Prominent religious leaders, including Rev. Amb. Ikpea Oyameda Samuel and Pastor Hon. Bill Francis, reiterated the need for religious tolerance as a pathway to peace and national unity. “Religious freedom is a fundamental human right that must be protected and respected,” Rev. Samuel said. “Promoting religious freedom fosters tolerance, understanding, and national development.”
Mr. Ade Hamoh, Country Director of the World Nations Development Programme Initiative LTD/GTE in Nigeria, also highlighted the importance of ongoing efforts to protect religious rights and promote peacebuilding among all Nigerians.
Mr. Bibi Oduku concluded with a passionate appeal: “Let all Nigerian citizens stay in peace. We are all Nigerians. We are one family. Let’s work together to stop religious and tribal crises and build a better, united Nigeria.”
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