Forum opposes law on religious preaching

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) has expressed opposition to a new policy in Niger State requiring religious preachers to submit their sermons for approval before delivery. In a statement signed by its convener, Paul James Adama, the Forum said the law could infringe on the rights of citizens to practice their faith freely. The […]

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) has expressed opposition to a new policy in Niger State requiring religious preachers to submit their sermons for approval before delivery.

In a statement signed by its convener, Paul James Adama, the Forum said the law could infringe on the rights of citizens to practice their faith freely.

The group pointed to Sections 38 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and expression, as well as international conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

The Forum also referenced the United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief, which upholds the right of individuals to practice or express their religion without restriction.

It urged the Niger State Government to reconsider the policy and instead focus on measures that address the developmental and security challenges facing the state.

The group further appealed to authorities to promote policies that foster peace, justice, and respect for the rule of law while ensuring that religious freedom is preserved.