Secularism in Nigeria: An Assessment

Abstract

Secularism is not the absence of religions in the state. Rather, it is the absence of a state sponsored religion where everyone will be made to choose a religion of their choice. People are free to follow which religious tenets they like without any fear, intimidation, victimization or favour. The central and state administrations are managed in such a way that no one is victimized because of his/her religious profession. The Nigerian 1999 constitution states in article 15(2) of chapter two that, ―National Integration shall be actively encouraged, whilst discrimination on the grounds of place of origin, sex, religion, status, ethnic or linguistic association or ties shall be prohibited‖. But is the spirit of the constitution adhered to in terms of its secularism as expected? This and other issues are what this paper intends to investigate that constitutes as obstacles to secularism in Nigeria.