The Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA) has condemned the move to arraign Zainab, a Christian convert in Zamfara State, before a Sharia court.
STOP THE INTIMIDATION AND HARASSMENT OF ZAINAB IN ZAMFARA.
Zainab’s only so-called “offense” is her decision to embrace Christianity and follow Jesus Christ. She has not broken any law, yet she now faces a religious court that does not reflect her beliefs.
NSCEA urges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and relevant authorities to act immediately. They must ensure her safety and uphold her constitutional rights.
Freedom of Religion Is a Non-Negotiable Right
In Nigeria, the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to choose and practice their religion freely. No one should face persecution, discrimination, or legal consequences for their faith.
Moreover, this fundamental freedom is essential in a nation as diverse and secular as ours. Authorities must protect it at all costs.
Zainab chose to follow Christ. That is her only “crime.” She has not engaged in violence, trafficking, or any other criminal behavior. She has not become a sex worker or someone living with substance use disorder.
Despite this, she faces charges simply because of her personal belief. That is unacceptable under Nigerian law.
The Constitution Takes Precedence Over All Other Laws
Section 1(1) of the Nigerian Constitution clearly states:
“This Constitution is supreme and its provisions shall have binding force on all authorities and persons throughout the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Additionally, Section 1(3) affirms:
“If any other law (religious or secular) is inconsistent with the provisions of this Constitution, this Constitution shall prevail, and that other law shall, to the extent of the inconsistency, be void.”
These clauses leave no room for misinterpretation. No religious court can override the constitutional rights of any Nigerian.
The government cannot remain silent. Authorities must rise to defend the Constitution and release Zainab immediately.
Free Zainab. Let her live in peace. Let her worship without fear.
Her right to practice Christianity is protected, and any attempt to deny it undermines Nigeria’s legal foundation.
This situation reveals a deeper issue: the urgent need for religious tolerance in our society. People of different faiths must coexist peacefully.
The Bible teaches us to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). That message applies to all—Muslim, Christian, or any other belief system.
NSCEA Issues Final Warning to Zamfara Sharia Court
NSCEA strongly warns the Zamfara Sharia Court to withdraw any effort to arraign Zainab. Forcing her into a religious court that does not align with her faith is a direct attack on her rights.
We cannot allow this injustice to continue. Nigeria must not become a place where individuals are punished for their beliefs.
A United Call for Peace and Religious Freedom
By protecting Zainab, Nigeria sends a clear message: freedom, justice, and tolerance will prevail.
NSCEA stands firmly with Zainab. We call on Nigerians everywhere to support her and defend the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religion. Let us build a country where no one is afraid to live their truth.
Signed:
Bishop Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies
Secretary, Elders’ Council
Nigerian Supreme Council for Ecclesiastical Affairs (NSCEA)
