Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has stated no Nigerian ought to be punished for selecting, altering or practising a faith, faulting the reported conviction of a Christian girl in Borno State.
The girl, recognized in circulating experiences as Lami Samuel Dawa, was reportedly convicted and imprisoned in a case linked to the conversion of an grownup girl to Christianity.
In a press assertion issued yesterday and signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the non secular physique stated it was disturbed by the event, including that it was nonetheless verifying the exact information and authorized foundation of the conviction.
CAN disclosed that an attraction had been filed in opposition to the conviction and stated it could permit the judicial course of to run its course.
But the affiliation stated the case was past one particular person, elevating elementary constitutional points.
“The case raises important questions about the protection of religious freedom and the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” CAN stated.
“Every individual has the right to freely choose, change or practise their religion or belief without coercion, intimidation or unlawful punishment,” CAN insisted.
The apex Christian physique referred to as on related authorities to make sure the rights of all events have been protected and justice was served in line with the Constitution.
It stated it could proceed to watch the case and have interaction authorities by acceptable authorized channels, whereas remaining dedicated to peaceable coexistence of all non secular backgrounds in Nigeria.
