A coalition of 19 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has vehemently opposed a bill seeking to establish a National Centre for Christian Education, which aims to regulate and set standards for the practice of Christianity in Nigeria. The CSOs argue that the bill lacks merit and violates several constitutional and human rights provisions.
Led by prominent human rights lawyer Sonnie Ekwowusi, the CSOs held a press conference in Lagos to express their concerns about the nine-page bill. Ekwowusi highlighted that the proposed legislation infringes on fundamental rights guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human & Peoples’ Rights.
The CSOs criticized the bill’s sponsors, particularly Senator Binos Yaroe of Adamawa South Senatorial District, for prioritizing a bill that encroaches on the freedom of thought, conscience, and religion in a multi-religious and secular state like Nigeria. They argue that the state should not interfere in religious practices or dictate syllabuses for religious schools.
Legal expert Ben Abraham emphasized the importance of maintaining the separation of state and church in a presidential democracy and secular state like Nigeria. He emphasized that the government should not show favoritism towards any particular religion and should respect the autonomy of religious institutions.
The CSOs have vowed to oppose the bill at every level and have urged for its dismissal. They argue that any democratic government that violates citizens’ inalienable human rights undermines the principles of democracy itself.
Among the CSOs opposing the bill are Foundation for African Cultural Heritage (FACH), Project for Human Development (PHD), Global Pro-life Alliance (GPA), Doctors Health Initiative, and several others dedicated to promoting human rights and religious freedom.
As the debate around the bill intensifies, it remains to be seen how the concerns raised by the CSOs will impact the legislative process and the future of Christian practice in Nigeria