The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed concern over the reported conviction and imprisonment of a Christian woman, identified as Lami Dawa in Borno State.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, stated this in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja.
Okoh said the association was particularly concerned by reports that the case arose from circumstances involving the conversion of an adult woman to Christianity, although the precise facts and legal basis of the conviction were still being verified.
He said an appeal has been filed and CAN was committed to allowing the judicial process to run its course.
“Nevertheless, 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,” he said.
Okoh said every individual had the right to freely choose, change or practise their religion or belief without coercion, intimidation or unlawful punishment.
He therefore called on relevant authorities to ensure that the rights of all parties are protected and that justice is served in accordance with the Constitution and the law.
He said the association would continue to monitor developments in the case and engage with relevant authorities through appropriate legal and institutional channels.
“CAN remains committed to the peaceful coexistence of Nigerians of all religious backgrounds and to the protection of the fundamental rights and freedoms of every citizen,” he said.
