Secularism and guided democracy

Abstract

Secularism is the recognition of religion and politics as distinct and autonomous domains. As a doctrine of the state, it has in practice been taken to mean indifference to or rejection of religion, laicization, neutrality, disestablishment and recognition of cultural diversity. Rejection of secularism as antithetical to a nation’s cultural traditions calls for special concern in a guided democratic system. The paper addresses the problem of disunity arising from rejection of secularism as diverse groups fan the politics of identity in Nigeria. The objective of the paper is to show that secularism as principle for structuring the organization of the state is a solid base for the unity of the state and a safeguard against drift into anarchy or theocracy. Adopting analytic and historical approaches, the paper argues that secularism is needed to stem the tide of reactionary and fanatical religious ideologies that threaten contemporary society. The paper concludes by noting that secularity of the state is to be upheld in Nigeria to ensure a viable and peaceful polity.

Keywords: Laïcism, Laicity, Disestablishment, Secularity, Neutrality