Christian Students Speak Out: Religious Rights Under Threat in Nigeria

W. Syaban

May 04, 2025

The Nigerian Student Christian Movement (SCM) has expressed deep concern over the severe infringement of religious freedoms for Christian students in the Northern region and throughout the nation.

The protest was conveyed via a statement released and signed by the national secretary of SCM, Mr Isuosuo Okeoghene, along with the chairperson of the Communique Committee, Dr Orekyeh Emeka, following their 85th anniversary and 33rd biannual conference. This gathering, which took place between April 17 and 21 in Bariga, Lagos State, centered around the theme "Repair: Reconstruct, Revitalize, and Repair," inspired by Isaiah 58:6-12.

Highlighting the issues brought forth by the movement regarding insecurity, notably the murders of Christians in Benue and Plateau states, the communique noted: "The SCM expresses deep concern over the prevalent instability across Nigeria, especially the ongoing attacks targeting Nigerians (chiefly Christians) in Benue and Plateau states. Regrettably, the reactions from governmental bodies, law enforcement entities, organizations, and private citizens have fallen short, to put it mildly."

Regarding the one-month Ramadan fasting/school break implemented for both public and private educational institutions in certain northern Nigerian states—such as Bauchi, Jigawa, and Kano—affecting all students regardless of religion, SCM expresses disappointment over the recent unilateral closures of these schools under the pretext of observing Ramadan within what is legally a secular nation. It’s important to acknowledge and uphold the constitutional right of Muslims to practice their faith freely.

"We firmly believe that this action is entirely inappropriate, insensitive, and a clear violation of the constitutional, educational, and children’s rights of Christian students. Additionally, it contravenes the secular principles outlined in Section 10 of the 1999 Constitution (as revised), which governs the Nigerian state. Therefore, SCM endorses the stance and resolution put forth by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) regarding this matter," as stated by SCM.

According to PenCom, NPC aims to reclaim N1.3 billion in outstanding pension payments owed to journalists. The report about the Niger Deputy Governor's resignation and departure from his official residence has been deemed untrue by an aide. Additionally, a foundation is supporting nursing mothers in Ibadan.

Moreover, the organization denounced the forcible abductions, conversions, and marriages of Christian girls in certain northern regions, highlighting the instance of Sister Mary Ishaya’s kidnapping, forced conversion, and planned coerced marriage to Bello Shuaibu Nasco in Niger State as evidence. The SCM expressed dismay over the lack of response from governmental authorities even after they were informed about these circumstances.

In the meantime, concerning the refusal to allow Christian students their right to peaceably gather and conduct fellowships within educational institutions, the movement highlighted that at certain secondary and higher education facilities in Nigeria, Christian students are deprived of the chance to assemble peacefully and express their religious beliefs.

We think this does not align with the laws of our country, which ensure the basic rights of citizens (such as students) to practice their religion anywhere in Nigeria.

We hereby request the federal and state governments along with the administrators of educational institutions to permit Christian students to conduct their fellowship gatherings, adhering to the regulations set forth by school authorities in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

SCM also urged President Bola Tinubu and the security forces to adopt stronger measures and become more active in protecting the lives and property of every Nigerian citizen.

The initiative likewise praised the Federal Government led by President Tinubu for formulating and executing numerous policies aimed at supporting businesses and empowering young people. These initiatives have resulted in countless youths participating in fruitful endeavors, with the Student Loans Scheme being highlighted as just one example among many that have assisted impoverished Nigerian students.

The SCM praised the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), along with all Nigerian church leaders, for consistently using their platforms to address matters of national significance and to defend the Body of Christ.

As stated in the communiqué, SCM was established by Dr. Francis Akanu Ibiam and Chief Theophilus O. Ejiwumi in 1940 as Nigeria’s branch of the World Student Christian Federation (WSCF), which has headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.

SCM is a religious organization with an inclusive approach, concentrating its efforts on nurturing righteous young people and students to drive societal change. Additionally, the Student Christian Movement aims to foster virtuous individuals who lead the charge against social issues that impede community advancement.