News

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

Published

1 year ago

February 13, 2025

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.

“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.

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.

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.

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

Xenophobic Attacks: Oshiomhole Tells FG To Retaliate Against South African Companies In Nigeria

Published

4 hours ago

May 5, 2026

Editor

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has called on the Federal Government to retaliate against South African businesses operating in Nigeria following the recent attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.

Speaking during plenary on Tuesday, Oshiomhole said the Federal Government should consider revoking the working license of South African owned companies such as MTN and DSTV.

He argued that Nigeria must respond firmly to what he described as persistent hostility against its citizens.

“I am not going to shed tears. If you hit me, I hit you. I think it is appropriate in diplomacy. It is an economic struggle,” Oshiomhole said.

He argued that while some South Africans accuse Nigerians of taking their jobs, Nigerians should return home and take over employment opportunities created by major South African companies operating in the country, including MTN and DSTV.

“When we hit back, the President of South Africa will not only talk but will also go on his knees to recognise that Nigeria cannot be intimidated.

“We will not condone any life being lost. If a crime has been committed under the South African law they have the right to bring any such person to justice, but to kill our people as if we are helpless, we will not allow that,” Oshiomhole added.

DAILY POST reports that several Nigerians in South Africa have reportedly been attacked, and their businesses destroyed, in ongoing xenophobic attacks in the country.

News

IGP Orders Officers Display Name Tag On Uniform, Gives Update On State Police

Published

4 hours ago

May 5, 2026

Editor

The Inspector General of Police, IGP, Tunji Disu, has ordered all police personnel to always have their name tags on their uniforms for easy identification.

Disu disclosed that only police personnel who are undercover are exempted from displaying their name tags.

Speaking on Tuesday, Disu said: “All police officers should have their name tags. All of us on the high table have our names apart from the undercover among us so if you look at all the Commissioners of Police we have our name tags, so it’s not our standard.

News

Court Orders SERAP To Pay DSS Operatives N100m For Defamation

Published

9 hours ago

May 5, 2026

Editor

The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory has ordered a non-governmental organization, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, to pay N100 million as damaged to two operatives of the Department of the State Services, DSS, for unjustly defaming them in some publications.

The court also ordered SERAP to tender public apologies to the defamed officers,
Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele, in two national newspapers, two television stations and its website.

Besides, the organization was also ordered to pay the two operatives N1 million as cost of litigation and 10 percent post-judgment interest annually on the judgment sum until it’s fully liquidated.

Justice Yusuf Halilu of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory gave the order on Tuesday while delivering judgment in a N5.5 billion defamation suit instituted against SERAP by the DSS operatives.

The judge found SERAP liable for unjustly defaming the two DSS operatives with allegations that they unlawfully invaded its Abuja office, harassed and intimidated its staff, in September 2024.

In the offending publication on its website and Twitter handle, SERAP alleged that the two operatives unlawfully invaded and occupied its office with sinister motives.

The judge held that the publication was in bad taste especially from an organization established to promote transparency and accountability, as nothing in the publication was found to be truthful.

The DSS staff had listed SERAP as 1st defendant in the suit marked CV/4547/2024. SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, was listed as the 2nd defendant.

In the suit, the claimants – Sarah John and Gabriel Ogundele – accused the two defendants of making false claims that they invaded SERAP’s Abuja office on September 9, 2024..

Counsel to the DSS, Oluwagbemileke Samuel Kehinde, had while adopting his final address in the mater urged the judge to grant all the reliefs sought by his client in the interest of justice.

He admitted that although the names of the two claimants were not mentioned in the defamation materials, they had however established substantial circumstances that they are the ones referred to in the published defamation article by SERAP on its website.

The counsel submitted that all ingredients of defamation have been clearly established and the offending publication referred to the two officials of the secret police.

However, SERAP, through its counsel, Victoria Bassey from Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, law firm, asked the court to dismiss the suit on the ground that the two claimants did not establish that they were the ones referred to in the alleged defamation materials.

She said that SERAP used “DSS officials” in the alleged offending publication, adding that the two claimants must establish that they are the ones referred to before their case can succeed.

Similar arguments were canvassed by Oluwatosin Adefioye who stood for the second defendant, adding that there was no dispute in the September 9, 2024 operation of DSS in SERAP’s office.

He said that since SERAP in the publication did not name any particular person, the claimants must plead special circumstances that they were the ones referred to as the DSS officials.

Besides, he said that there is no organization by name Department of State Services in law, hence, DSS cannot claim being defamed adding that the only entity known to law is National Security Agency.

The claimants had in the suit stated that the alleged false claim by SERAP has negatively impacted on their reputation.

The DSS also stated, in the statement of claim, that, in line with the agency’s practice of engaging with officials of non-governmental organisations operating in the FCT to establish a relationship with their new leadership, it directed the two officials – John and Ogunleye – to visit SERAP’s office and invite them for a familiarization meeting.

The claimants added that in carrying out the directive, John and Ogunleye paid a friendly visit to SERAP’s office at 18 Bamako Street, Wuse Zone 1, Abuja on September 9 and met with one Ruth, who upon being informed about the purpose of the visit, claimed that none of SERAP’s management staff was in the country and advised that a formal letter of invitation be written by the DSS.

John and Ogundele, who claimed that their interactions with Ruth were recorded, said before they immediately exited SERAP’s office, Ruth promised to inform her organisation’s management about the visit and volunteered a phone number – 08160537202.

They said it was surprising that, shortly after their visit, SERAP posted on its X (Twitter) handle – @SERAPNigeria – that officers of the DSS are presently unlawfully occupying its office.

The claimant added, “On the same day, the defendants also published a statement on SERAP’s website, which was widely reported by several media outfits, falsely alleging that some officers from the DSS, described as “a tall, large, dark-skinned woman” and “a slim, dark skinned man,” invaded their Abuja office and interrogated the staff of the first defendant (SERAP).

John and Ogundele stated that “due to the false statements published by the defendants, the DSS has been ridiculed and criticised by international agencies such as the Amnesty International and prominent members of the Nigerian society, such as Femi Falana (SAN)”.

“Due to the false statements published by the defendants, members of the public and the international community formed the opinion that the Federal Government is using the DSS to harass the defendants.”

They added that the defendants’ statements caused harm to their reputation because the staff and management of the DSS have formed the opinion that the claimants did not follow orders and carried out an unsanctioned operation and are therefore, incompetent and unprofessional.

The claimants therefore prayed the court for the following reliefs: “An order directing the defendants to tender an apology to the claimants via the first defendant’s (SERAP’s) website, X (twitter) handle, two national daily newspapers (Punch and Vanguard) and two national news television stations (Arise Television and Channels Television) for falsely accusing the claimants of unlawfully invading the first defendant’s office and interrogating the first defendant’s staff.

“An order directing the defendants to pay the claimants the sum of N5 billion as damages for the libellous statements published about the claimants.

“Interest on the sum of N5b at the rate of 10 percent per annum from the date of judgment until the judgment sum is realised or liquidated.

“An order directing the defendants to pay the claimants the sum of N50 million as costs of this action.”