The Faith and Freedom Africa (FFA) has called on Nigerian Government to respect and protect every citizen’s right to freedom of religion as enshrined in Section 38 of the Nigerian Constitution.
Speaking at a one-day colloquium held during a weekend at Blue Nile Suites, Jalingo, FFA Country Coordinator, Felix Samari emphasized the importance of recognizing and respecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of their faith or belief.
The event, themed: “Freedom of Religious Beliefs (FoRB)”,, brought together religious leaders, activists, and community members to discuss religious tolerance and inclusion.
Samari noted that the FFA town hall meeting is part of ongoing efforts to promote peace, religious tolerance, and the recognition of constitutional rights in communities across Nigeria.
“With Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) advocacy, we are not only speaking for Christians and Muslims but also for practitioners of African traditional religions and even atheists,” he said.
Participants highlighted the need for government recognition and support for all faiths, including African Traditional Religion (ATR).
In his paper presentation, Barrister Daniel Saredau criticized the government’s practice of funding only Christian and Muslim pilgrims’ boards, describing it as “discriminatory and unhealthy for national unity,”.
He argued that in section 38 guarantees every person the right to freedom of conscience, belief and worship, including the freedom to propagate one’s faith.
“Section 42 forbids discrimination on the basis of religion, among others, in law or government action,” he said.
