Between Theory and Practice: An Appraisal of the Place of Religion in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

Abstract

Religion is markedly a fundamental and sensitive factor across the globe. Hence, religious policy is contained in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which forbids adoption of any religion as State religion and grants every citizen the right to freedom of religion without discrimination or favouritism on the grounds of religion. This provision is premised on religious plurality as evident in the country with citizens practising different religions. Thus, Nigeria is believed to be a secular society and by implication, religion must not be a determinant in decision- making and policy formulation. However, this projection has proved to be a mere theory as religious inclination always features in the public sphere. Several works have been done on religion and the Nigerian nation from different fields of study, save the aspect of the rule of law. This paper, therefore, examined religious policy in Nigeria and its implicit violation by government, institutions and citizens of the country to know its implications for the rule of law, unity and integration, socioeconomic development, human value and international relations. Recommendations were made towards ensuring careful handling of religious matters so as to avoid a crisisprone religious atmosphere in Nigeria. The paper adopted on Tariq Modood's Moderate Secularism, which advocates an accommodative model and respects religion, yet goes beyond both toleration and civic recognition. Using library research design method, the study consulted relevant literature, complemented by empirical evidences on issues that relate to religion and public affairs in Nigeria.

Keywords: Nigeria, religion, constitution, plurality, secularism