Freedom Of Religion In Nigeria

By Ubong S. Ebong Esq. -
Today let's talk about religious rights. Religion is always a delicate and acrimonious issue in Nigeria which is even the more reason why we all need to know what the law says about religion so that we can learn to respect our different religious beliefs.

So without much ado we will be discussing this fundamental right in 4 major points:

1) Every Nigerian has the freedom to BELONG, to CHANGE, to PRACTICE and to PROPAGATE or PREACH his/her religion. Under the law you are free to do any or all of the above both privately and publicly, and either alone or together with other persons. However, this freedom does not exonerate you if you use it unlawfully for instance where you become a nuisance to other people or become a trespasser or where you resort to violence. This is in line with the hallowed principle of law which stipulates that your rights end where another person's own begins.

2) No educational institution can compel its students to undergo any religious study or take part in any religious ceremony/practice which is not part of that student's religion. If the religion of the school & those of its students are different, the approval/consent of the students' parents/guardians are needed.

3) No educational institution can be prevented from providing religious instructions on any religion of its choice. In other words, schools can teach any religion of their choice but the students cannot be forced to participate in such religious education if the religion being taught is not the same with the students' religion & without his/her parents/guardian's consent.

4) Freedom of religion does not include membership or participation in secret/clandestine societies such as occultic and cult groups.

Before we end our discussion let me quickly point out that freedom of religion is not limited to only the types of religion but also includes the denominations of religions. In other words, you are not just free to be a Christian or a Muslim but you are also free to choose which denomination of Christianity or Islam you wish to belong to. For instance, your free to be a Catholic or a member of Redeemed or a Sunni Muslim or a Shiite Muslim or to worship Sango or Amadioha etc.

So when next your religious rights are violated or threatened, consult your lawyer to pursue appropriate legal remedies for you.

Have a great day.
#KYR

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