CAN Condemns Conviction of Christian Woman in Borno, Says No Nigerian Should Be Punished for Choosing Any Religion

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has said no Nigerian should be punished for choosing, changing or practising a religion, faulting the reported conviction of a Christian woman in Borno State.

The woman, identified in circulating reports as Lami Samuel Dawa, was reportedly convicted and imprisoned in a case linked to the conversion of an adult woman to Christianity.

In a press statement issued yesterday and signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the religious body said it was disturbed by the development, adding that it was still verifying the precise facts and legal basis of the conviction.

CAN disclosed that an appeal had been filed against the conviction and said it would allow the judicial process to run its course.

But the association said the case was beyond one individual, raising fundamental constitutional issues.

“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 said.

“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 body called on relevant authorities to ensure the rights of all parties were protected and justice was served in line with the Constitution.

It said it would continue to monitor the case and engage authorities through appropriate legal channels, while remaining committed to peaceful coexistence of all religious backgrounds in Nigeria.