“We Are One Family”: Human Rights Group Calls for Unity and Protection of Religious Freedom in Nigeria

By  Pan Afric Reporters Abuja, Nigeria June 24, 2025

In a strong call for peace, unity, and religious tolerance, Guard Time Information (GTI), a nationwide human rights advocacy group, has reaffirmed that every Nigerian citizen has the constitutional right to practice their religion freely and without fear, regardless of tribe or region.

Speaking during a public enlightenment campaign, Mr. Bibi Oduku, Chairman of GTI and a respected national human rights advocate, emphasized that Nigeria’s Constitution firmly guarantees religious freedom and prohibits the adoption of any religion as the official state faith.

“In Nigeria, both Christianity and Islam significantly influence our laws and social structure,” Oduku stated. “Yet, Section 38 of the 1999 Constitution ensures every Nigerian’s freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. Section 10 clearly states that no religion shall be adopted as a state religion. These are non-negotiable rights.”

GTI’s recent research revealed disturbing trends of religious intimidation and abuse in various regions and institutions, including schools. In many cases, students and staff experience subtle or overt restrictions on their religious expressions.

Supporting the call for religious harmony, prominent legal experts including Musa Bala Esq. and Barr. Muhammad Yukubu highlighted the peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims in daily Nigerian life. “We trade together, study together, and live side by side. There is no true dichotomy between us. Only a few misunderstand religion, but through dialogue, understanding grows,” Bala said.

GTI’s campaign is backed by several influential organizations committed to promoting interfaith unity among which re Nigeria Interfaith Coalition For Freedom Of Religion Or Belief (NICFORB), led by Mr. Felix Joseph Samari,National Association of University Students (NAUS) and Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN), under Comrade Mustapha Tajudeen and The Association of Christian Schools International and The Foundation for Student Mission, which advocate for Christian education and values while promoting interfaith dialogue.

Rev. Amb. Ikpea Oyameda Samuel and Pastor Hon. Bill Francis also joined the campaign, highlighting the role of religious freedom in fostering tolerance, encouraging diversity, and protecting human dignity. “Religious freedom is not just a right — it is the foundation for peace and societal growth,” said Pastor Francis.

Mr. Ade Hamoh, Country Director of World Nations Development Programme Initiative, pledged continued support to the cause, stressing that “interfaith understanding is key to Nigeria’s development.”

In a unifying message to Nigerians, Mr. Oduku concluded:

“Let all Nigerian citizens stay in peace. We are all Nigerians. We are one family. Let us work together — Christians, Muslims, and people of all beliefs — to stop religious and tribal crises and build a better, united Nigeria.”