Lawyer Warns Against Erosion of Religious Freedom in Anambra State

Human rights activist and lawyer Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor has warned of erosion of religious freedom in Anambra State. Ejiofor stated this when he faulted Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s recent decision to impose a ban on public preaching, accompanied by a hefty fine of ₦500,000 for violators. The activist emphasizes that this move raises serious concern about the state of religious freedom in Anambra state.

In a statement released on Monday, Ejiofor pointed out that Section 38(1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, guarantees every individual the right to freedom of worship, which includes the ability to manifest and propagate one’s religion. He noted that the outright ban on public preaching criminalizes activities such as crusades and evangelism that have long occurred outside church premises, thereby infringing upon citizens’ rights.

Ejiofor stated, “The recent ban on public preaching, alongside the hefty fine, represents an alarming overreach and an infringement on religious freedoms. The Constitution entitles every person to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, including the freedom to worship and spread one’s beliefs.”

Highlighting a Supreme Court ruling from the case of Lagos State Govt & Ors V. Abdulkareem & Ors (2022), he reiterated that the rights protected under Section 38(1) include the freedom to manifest and disseminate religious beliefs in public or private settings. He stressed, “The plain meaning of this constitutional clause affirms that every person is entitled to openly practice their religion without undue restrictions.”

The governor’s actions, particularly a viral video showing him instructing a preacher to stop in a market due to noise pollution, have sparked outrage. Ejiofor believes that rather than implementing a sweeping ban, the governor could have sought more appropriate measures to regulate public preaching while addressing concerns about potential noise disturbances.

He raised questions about the governor’s priorities, stating, “How does the prevailing insecurity in Anambra State relate to peaceful gospel preachers engaged in evangelism? These individuals are merely fulfilling their spiritual mandate, spreading the word of God.”

Ejiofor contrasted Anambra’s approach with that of neighboring states like Abia and Enugu, which he claimed manage to deliver governance effectively without undermining religious liberties.

He further called for a reevaluation of the ban, stressing that true leadership should focus on fostering development and security while respecting fundamental rights. “In a democratic society, policies must align with justice and respect for rights. Let wisdom prevail,” he stated.