The Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS) has unequivocally, condemned the continued harassment and persecution of traditional religious practitioners in Anambra State.
This is contained in a statement made available to the newsmen in Aba by CEHREWS’ Executive Director, Peter Okoye.
Okoye condemned the report of
invasions of traditional worship centers, desecration of deities and intimidation of indigenous religious leaders which directly violated fundamental human rights.
He said that the fundamental human right was enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended) and constituted an affront to religious freedom, cultural heritage, and democratic governance.
“Right to Freedom of Religion, every Nigeria is guaranteed the freedom to think, believe, practice and propagate their religion without state interference.
“The reported targeted clampdown on traditional religious practitioners amounts to an egregious violation of this fundamental right.
“In section 10, “Secular Nature of Government,” the Nigerian constitution prohibits any state from adopting a religion as it’s official faith.
He said that the constitution conflict and legal implications were domisticated in Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 and guaranteed fair treatment under the law and prohibits arbitrary actions by government authorities.
“Any policy, executive order or state law used to harass traditional worshippers are ultra vires (beyond legal authority) and thus, null and void pursuant to Section 1(3) of the Constitution.
“Section 1(3) established the supremacy of the Constitution over all laws, policies, and government actions,”it said.
The NGO called for balance approach and recognised the need to combat criminal activities that might arise under the guise of religious practices but rejected any attempt to vilify indigenous spirituality.
“We condemned granting unchecked freedom to religious leaders in other faiths and If the government seeks regulation and scrutiny, it must be fair, legal, and applicable to all religious groups.
“Ensuring that religious institutions, Christian, Islamic, and Traditional adhere to lawful standards without infringing upon constitutional rights,” he advised
The director recommended that Anambra Government should halt the alleged persecution of traditional religious practitioners and repeal any state policy that infringe upon religious freedom.
“Engage in constructive dialogue with all religious communities to foster inclusivity and prevent religious conflicts in Anambra State.
“Ensure that any regulation of religious practice applies equitably across all faiths, without bias toward Christianity or any other religion.
“Launch covert intelligence operations to identify and prosecute criminal elements rather than demonising an entire religious group,” he said.
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