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Sharia Law Expansion Can Fuel Conflict In S’West, Catholic Church Warns

The Catholic Church has raised concerns over the potential expansion of Sharia law in Southwest Nigeria, warning that such a move could heighten religious tensions and lead to conflict in the region.
The Church has called for careful deliberation, emphasising the importance of upholding religious freedom and ensuring that no religious group is favoured over another in the region’s multi-religious environment.
This issue was highlighted during the 5th Edition of the Media Parley with the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) Community, held in Abuja.
The event featured key Church leaders, including Rev. Fr. Lawrence Emehel, Director of the Mission and Dialogue Department, who addressed the discussions surrounding the introduction of Sharia law.
He acknowledged the constitutional allowances for Sharia law in personal matters but urged that it be implemented cautiously to avoid disenfranchising other religious groups. He stressed that any legal reform must ensure inclusivity and respect for religious diversity in Southwest Nigeria.
The CSN official stated, “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.
“The Church views this situation through the lens of understanding and trust. 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.
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“The Catholic Church in Nigeria 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.
“Our identity as Nigerians is paramount, and this must not be undermined. The constitution guarantees religious liberty, but careful consideration is necessary to prevent discrimination or exclusion.”
Neo-Paganism
Another critical issue discussed at the event was the rise of neo-paganism among Nigerian youth, which the Church views as a growing challenge. Rev. Fr. Boniface Idoko, National Youth Animator, addressed the alarming trend of young Nigerians turning to pagan practices as a temporary escape from socio-economic difficulties.
He attributed this shift to a decline in family values and the overwhelming influence of social media.
The priest said, “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. The socio-economic environment undermines their mental stability, and old practices are resurfacing. The decline in family values has left children influenced by the streets and social media. Without proper guidance, young people are easily swayed. The Church recognises its role as a nurturing force and is organising training sessions to redirect young minds towards true faith and worship. We aim to instil values against materialism and moral neglect, and to renew hope and understanding of faith. With God’s help, we hope to reclaim our youth.”
Get-Rich-Quick Syndrome
Another key discussion point was the deepening concern over the ‘get rich quick’ mentality that has permeated Nigerian society.
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Rev. Fr. Michael Ayanleke Banjo, Secretary General of the CSN, linked the moral decline in the country to the glorification of unexplained wealth and the loss of ethical principles.
He stated, “To transform Nigeria and eliminate the allure of paganism and corrupt practices, we must focus on forming consciences. Without a solid foundation, people cannot differentiate between right and wrong, leading to moral apathy. The family is the cornerstone of society; if we wish to combat the ‘get rich quick’ mentality, we must instill values of honesty and contentment. We must teach children the value of hard work and dignity in labour, as these are integral to Catholic teachings. We must start with the family and extend to schools and places of worship. The responsibility is ours.”
Proposed 12-4 Education System
On reforms, Rev. Fr. Augustine Okochi, Director of the Pastoral Agents Department, spoke about necessity of the Church’s active participation in ongoing consultations with the government regarding educational reforms, particularly the proposed 12-4 education system.
Fr. Okochi reiterated the importance of ensuring that all stakeholders, including the Church, have a say in the shaping of educational policies that affect the future of Nigeria’s youth.
He said, “We recognise the importance of consulting all stakeholders before major decisions. Collaboration between the Church and government has historically been successful, and we hope to continue this partnership. We are engaged in consultations and monitoring the government’s actions in education.”
Anambra Homeland Security Law
Additionally, Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh, National Director of the Directorate of Social Communications, touched on the Anambra Homeland Security Law, which aims to regulate religious activities, particularly those associated with indigenous and traditional practices.
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Fr. Umoh acknowledged the growing misuse of religion for personal gain and exploitation. He voiced cautious support for government measures aimed at addressing these abuses, while stressing the need to protect the sanctity of genuine religious practices and prevent any overreach that might hinder the free exercise of faith.
The CSN spokesman explained, “We are all witnesses to the indecency and indiscipline prevalent in our country; religion has not been immune to this. Many individuals exploit religion for personal gain or use it for misguided purposes.
“If a government proposes measures to introduce checks and balances in this context, it aligns with one of its primary responsibilities: protecting the populace. This must be approached with great caution. We must recognise the vital role religion plays in social engineering. It contributes to the moral formation of individuals, regulates society, and helps people navigate life’s challenges.
“If a government seeks to address the wrongdoings of individuals misusing religion, such action is commendable. Nevertheless, it is imperative that we do not inadvertently discard valuable aspects of faith while addressing these issues.”
Kidnapping of Priests
Rev. Fr. Augustine Fasiku, Director of the Pastoral Affairs Department, condemned the rising incidents of kidnapping, particularly targeting priests.
READ ALSO: Man Arraigned Over Alleged Breach Of Trust
He stressed that the Church remains firm in opposing such criminal activities, which reflect the broader national problem of insecurity.
He said, “The issue of kidnapping, particularly concerning priests and other individuals in our country, has become a significant problem. Kidnapping often arises from a desperate need for financial gain. The Church has taken a firm stance against these acts, as they are not representative of our values.
“This issue transcends the Church; it is a national concern that affects us all. We must collectively address the root causes of this problem. It is not just about peace; it impacts the entire country, as many people suffer from this crisis. The Church continues to speak out against those engaging in such acts, reminding us that the teachings of the Bible call for justice and compassion.
“Therefore, it is crucial that all hands are on deck to bring an end to these heinous acts.”
The event, convened by Very Rev. Mike Umoh, concluded with a collective call to action from Church leaders to both the government and society at large, urging concerted efforts to address these pressing moral and spiritual issues.
(VANGUARD)
News
Oba of Benin Renews Bond With Ancestral Relations, Nigerians During Emorhọ Feast

The palace of the Oba of Benin was agog with activities during the 2025 Emorhọ fest, declared by Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin as part of activities to mark the ancient Emorhọ, otherwise known as the ‘New Yam Festival’.
Oba of Benin, who reenacted the age-long festival, renewed the bond that exist between him and his ancestral relations from Issele-Uku in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State at the event, which attracted dignitaries, including Benin people, indigenes and non-indigenes across Edo State.
Members of the Benin Royal family, Edionwere (village heads), youth leaders across the various communities in Benin, market women group, palace chiefs, traditional priests and priestesses in Benin, were also in attendance.
READ ALSO:Oba Of Benin Declares Two-week Fasting, Prayer For Edo
A special prayer offered on behalf of the palace by Chief Enorense Ozigbo-Esere, the Osuma of Benin, paved the way for the commencement of the feast, where Secretary to the Benin Traditional Council, Frank Irabor, welcomed guests and highlighted the essence of the gathering.
Speaking in an interview, Oba Ewuare younger ancestral relations from Issele-Uku led by Chief Michael Odiakosa, expressed delight for the privilege to be part of the historic celebration.
He explained the relationship between Benin and Issele-Uku, reaffirming that, “Issele-Uku is an extension of Benin Kingdom. We are all descendants of Benin. So, we are at home”.
READ ALSO:Oba Of Benin Ushers In ‘Emorọ’
“We are in a safe place. We came to celebrate the festival with our father, the Omo N’ Oba, and we are happy to be here”, Odiakosa said.
On his part, 99-year-old Pa. Paul Osarumwense Oyemwen, the Odionwere of Orior-Ozolua community in Uhunmwode LGA who thanked the Oba for the gesture, said the festival is not new in Benin and it’s devoid of sacrifices.
Expressing her appreciation to the Oba of Benin, the ‘Edo markets leader’, Pastor (Mrs) Josephine Ibhaguezejele, noted that members of the group have been waiting anxiously for the opportunity to partake in the yearly festival, while praying God that the blessings of the festival to transform lives.
Also speaking, Pa. Daniel Osunde, the Odionwere of Idumwun-owina, N’ Iyeke-orhiomwon, also prayed for the Oba and thanked the first Class traditional ruler for his foresight.
Excited guests in their numbers were fed with African delicacy, amid dancing and jubilation, while members of Isikhian women group who gave a good account of their stewardship, were not left out in the celebration by the Oba who rewarded them with cash gift and other items in acknowledgement their duties in Benin.
News
Okpebholo Poised To Surpassing People’s Expectations — Edo Deputy Gov

Edo deputy governor, Hon Dennis Idahosa has assured that the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration is poised to surpass the expectations of the people of the state in terms of campaign promises fulfilment.
Idahosa said that the administration had hit the grand running right from the day of inauguration by identifying and prioritising the key areas of the SHINE agenda for implementation.
A statement by Mr Friday Aghedo, Chief Press Secretary to the deputy governor, said Idahosa spoke when he received the prestigious Peace Ambassador Award from the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA).
The award ceremony held at the deputy governor’s office during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the IAWPA led by the President, Amb. Per Stafsen, the South-South Coordinator/Edo state Director, Amb. Amos Areloegbe, and other zonal representatives.
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“We pray, by the grace of God, Edo State will surpass the expectations of the people when we are through with our tenure,” he declared.
Idahosa described the recognition as a source of pride, not just for him, but for the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration.
“Governor Okpebholo is a man of peace, and his government stands firmly for peace. This award is a validation of his unwavering commitment to building a safe and harmonious Edo State,” he said.
The Deputy Governor emphasized that peace and security remain central pillars of the government’s five-point SHINE agenda, noting that collaboration with traditional institutions, religious leaders, and civil society organizations has been vital in sustaining stability across the state.
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“Peace is extremely important in any society. Where there is peace, there is security; where insecurity prevails, peace cannot exist.
“This recognition today strengthens our resolve to continue being ambassadors of peace,” Idahosa stated.
On his part, Amb. Amos Areloegbe noted that IAWPA, a United Nations–certified body aligned with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), deliberately chose Edo State to commemorate the International Day of Non-Violence on October 2.
According to him, “Edo State remains one of the most peaceful states in the federation, hence our choice to celebrate here.”
The investiture was hailed by observers as not only an honour to Idahosa but also as an acknowledgment of Edo’s growing reputation as a bastion of peace under Governor Okpebholo’s leadership.
News
Ogoni Women Protest Resumption Of Oil Production, Demand Accountability In $1Bn Cleanup Funds

Ogoni women drawn from all works of life have come out to protest against the resumption of oil production in the area without proper negotiation.
The women expressed anger over the non-transparent nature of the entire oil resumption exercise, accusing the government of attempting to manipulate them into giving up on their demands as expressed in the Ogoni Bill of Rights (OBR).
The women further demanded that the Nigerian government account for $300million Ogoni infrastructure development fund which is alleged to have been diverted by some key government personalities in alliance with some Ogoni leaders.
They further demanded accountability for the $1Billion Ogoni cleanup funds which they said is a failed project.
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The women, who marched on the streets of Bori, the traditional headquarters of Ogoni, accused the government of neglecting the core demands of the Ogoni people including the demand for the creation of a Bori State and compensation for livelihood losses due to decades of devastating oil spills in the lands.
“We lost everything, crops, drinking water sources, food and farming lands and we now live with strange illnesses which ultimately will lead to our death. No one is interested in all that. The only thing the government is interested in is our oil resources. We reject the insensitivity of the government and we want to be heard”; one of the protesters who pleaded anonymity told Ogoninews.
Another speaker, Mrs Helen Huoma said the plot to resume oil production in Ogoni is deceptive.
“The oil industry people are always lying. They will tell us something and do another. When we ask our MOSOP leaders, they tell us they know nothing about what the government and the oil industry are doing. It’s all a bunch of confusion and deceit. We will resist this move because we paid heavily to give Ogoni a name and the pride it has today”
A woman identified as Janet from Gokana Local Government Area alleged that the Nigerian government has never been interested in the welfare of the Ogoni people.
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She alleged that the government had only been interested in the oil and after that, they appeased political leaders with contracts to suppress local residents.
“All they do is deceive the Ogoni people and we continue to suffer in the midst of abundant natural resources. If they can divert $300million, then how can we trust them? Before we start, let them account for the $300 million and the cleanup program which, at least, should have solved some basic problems.”
The Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu had recently directed the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu to engage the NNPC Limited and work out modalities for the resumption of oil production in Ogoni. This directive followed a meeting with some Ogoni leaders in Aso Rock, Presidential Villa.
The president had also recently granted pardon to the Ogoni nine including Ken Saro-Wiwa and to four Ogoni leaders who were murdered on May 21, 1995. The Abacha regime had blamed Ken Saro-Wiwa for the murders and executed him along with 8 others on November 10, 1995 despite global outcry acknowledging their innocence.
Following the executions, a United Nations fact finding team visited Nigeria. The team acknowledged that the entire trial process was flawed and noted that Nigeria did not even follow the minimal prescription of its own laws in the conduct of the trial.
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