The Catholic Church has expressed grave concern over the proposed expansion of Sharia law in Southwest Nigeria, cautioning that such a move could fuel religious conflict in a region known for its religious diversity.
Church leaders urged the government to tread carefully, emphasizing that any legal reform must respect the constitutional right to religious freedom, ensuring no group is marginalised.
During the 5th Edition of the Media Parley with the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) Community in Abuja, Church officials discussed the complexities surrounding the introduction of Sharia law in the region.
Director of the Mission and Dialogue Department, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Emehel, highlighted the need for inclusivity, warning that favouring one religious group over another could destabilise the delicate interfaith balance in the Southwest.
“The question at hand is the introduction of Sharia law in Southwest Nigeria, and the position of the Church must be clarified first and foremost. The current desire for Sharia law stems from dissatisfaction with the existing system,” Emehel explained.
He continued, “It is essential to recognise that Southwest Nigeria is a melting pot of diverse religious beliefs. Favouring one group over another could lead to conflict, especially in families with different religious traditions.”
The Church acknowledged the legal framework that permits Sharia law in personal matters, but stressed the importance of implementing such laws with caution to prevent disenfranchising other religious groups.
“The Catholic Church calls for caution not to dismiss the legitimate desires of the people, but to acknowledge that we do not exist in isolation. It is crucial that the implementation of these laws does not inhibit or restrict others in their practices,” Emehel said.
The Church leaders also raised concerns about the rising influence of neo-paganism among Nigerian youth, with some turning to pagan practices as a form of escape from socio-economic challenges.
Rev. Fr. Boniface Idoko, National Youth Animator, pointed to the decline in family values and the pervasive influence of social media as significant contributors to this troubling trend.
“Our youths are drawn to whatever seems to offer immediate relief or support, often leading them to pagan practices as a temporary escape from their challenges,” Idoko added.
Rev. Fr. Michael Ayanleke Banjo, Secretary General of the CSN, tied the moral decline in Nigeria to the glorification of unearned wealth, calling for a return to values of hard work and honesty.
“To transform Nigeria and eliminate the allure of paganism and corrupt practices, we must focus on forming consciences,” he said.
The Church also underscored its involvement in ongoing consultations with the government regarding proposed educational reforms, particularly the contentious 12-4 education system.
Rev. Fr. Augustine Okochi, Director of the Pastoral Agents Department, emphasised the need for all stakeholders, including the Church, to have a say in shaping the future of Nigeria’s educational policies.
On a different note, Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh, National Director of the Directorate of Social Communications, voiced cautious support for the Anambra Homeland Security Law.
While acknowledging the potential misuse of religion for personal gain, Umoh called for careful implementation to avoid infringing on genuine religious practices.
The rising incidents of kidnapping, particularly targeting priests, were also condemned by the Church. Rev. Fr. Augustine Fasiku, Director of the Pastoral Affairs Department, reiterated the Church’s unwavering stance against such criminal activities, which he said are symptomatic of a broader national insecurity issue.
Church leaders collectively urged the government and Nigerian society to prioritize religious harmony, moral reform, and social justice.
