The recent ban on public preaching in Anambra State, coupled with a hefty fine of ₦500,000.00 for defaulters, is another alarming overreach that raises serious concerns about religious freedom.
For the avoidance of doubt, Section 38 (1) of the 1999 Constitution [as amended], 2023, which guarantees the right to freedom of worship, provides as follows:
“Every person shall be entitled to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, including freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom (either alone or in community with others, and in public or private) to manifest and propagate his religion or belief in worship, teaching, practice and observance.”
In the case of Lagos State Govt & Ors V. Abdulkareem & ORS (2022) LPELR-58517(SC), the Supreme Court held as follows:
“The plain or ordinary grammatical meaning of Section 38(1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, is that every person is entitled to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, including the freedom to manifest and spread his religion or belief in the manner in which he worships, teaches, disseminates or observes the rules or customs of his religion. Sub-sections (2) and (3) further affirm the protection of these rights.” Per KEKERE-EKUN, J.S.C ( Now CJN) .
Many may not even understand the extent of the restrictions that have been placed on their religious freedom by this outright ban by the State Governor. By that declaration, all manner of public preaching, including crusades and outreaches that hitherto happened outside the church premises, have been criminalised, under a yet to be identified “law” referenced by the Governor.
Rather than an outright ban, the Governor should have talked about ways of regulating and moderating such public preachings, to avoid the alleged noise pollution, which he purports to be the reason for the ban.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo seems to be at his wit’s end in tackling the myriad of serious and critical issues facing our dear State.
How does the prevailing insecurity in Anambra State relate to peaceful gospel preachers engaged in evangelism? These individuals are merely fulfilling their spiritual and biblical mandate – spreading the word of God and calling people to faith.
Neighbouring states like Abia and Enugu, continue to deliver democratic dividends effectively, prioritizing governance without stifling religious liberties or making excessive public declarations. Anambra should take a cue from them, fostering security and development without undermining fundamental freedoms.
In a democratic society, policies must align with justice, fairness, and respect for rights. The ban on public preaching is a dangerous precedent that must be revisited. True leadership is about building, not suppressing; about securing, not silencing.
Let wisdom prevail.
By Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Esq. (KSC)
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