It is no longer secret that a Bill seeking to create a National Centre for Christian Education has passed the second reading at the Red Chambers of the National Assembly. The so-called Bill if passed into law shall henceforth regulate and set standards for the practice of Christianity in Nigeria. The religious Bill sponsored by Senator Binos Yaroe, who represents Adamawa South Senatorial District is an evil wind, seeking to debase Christianity. Discerning minds in the country know that Nigeria indeed is passing through a phase in the annals of her history, of which, religion suddenly has become a major issue in the polity, owing to deep seated suspicion. People can no longer be deceived on issues of religion, no matter how hard the government tries to colour it, especially when innocent people, including the clergy have either been kidnapped or massacred in cold blood because of the faith they professed. No thanks to the inglorious activities of the Boko Haram sect that has continued to unleash terror in some parts of northern Nigeria, against the Christian faithfuls and Muslims alike. The mutual suspicion between the adherents of the two major religions is not in doubt because government has been unable to tackle this hydra-headed monster that has been on the loose, leaving behind tears, sorrows and pains, whenever and wherever they struck.
The government has also been accused severally of clandestine moves to favour one religion over the other. This is also not unconnected with the kid gloves with which the Boko Haram terrorists who confront, and are still fighting the Nigerian Army are treated by the government. Many of the repentant Boko Haram have been integrated into the society while a large chunk of them are equally undergoing short term deradicalization process in preparation for reintegration into the society. Just last year, efforts were also made to introduce hijjab in one of the Mission Schools in the North Central by the state government, if not for the alarm raised by the Parents Teachers Association(PTA), and the School Authority, the story would have been different. Whether we believe it or not, religion in Nigeria, lately has become a very contentious issue and any attempt to shy away from this reality would not augur well either now or in the future. One wonders also why law makers that have less than two weeks to hand over to the next assembly are bent on passing Bills, especially the one on religion that touches on the sensibility of the people.
Again, there is also heightened worry why this Bill is being reintroduced this time, and zeroing squarely on the Christian faith without mentioning other religions. Nigeria is a secular state; whose constitution guarantees freedom of worship without any inhibition. Meddling in religious issues by the government which is purely a private affair between man and his creator, is worrisome and calls for vigilance. Nigerians should be on the watch on the activities of the 9th Senate. Obnoxious Bills/Laws at this time, especially those that would put the country on the edge should be rejected now. They have little time to hand over. Much as we agree that government is a continuum, we sensed that those of them who lost elections and are on their way out, may become vicious in their submission, given the nature and manner politics is played here. The standard practice of Christianity is spiritual, and had already been set by God whom we serve. Our role model is Jesus Christ and not mere mortals whose survival and tenure in office are in the hands of God.
