The Bill to Regulate Practice of Christianity in Nigeria: A Necessary Step Towards Peace and Tolerance or an Overreach?

The Bill to Regulate Practice of Christianity in Nigeria: A Necessary Step Towards Peace and Tolerance or an Overreach?

"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people" (Proverbs 14:34). In light of this scripture, Nigeria stands at a significant crossroads. The path we choose today will determine the future of our nation's spiritual health and harmony.

Senator Binos Yaroe introduced the "Bill to Regulate Practice of Christianity in Nigeria" to the Senate on May 6, 2023. This piece of legislation, which has stirred a whirlwind of reactions across the nation, seeks to establish a National Centre for Christian Education. The proposed Centre will not only "regulate and set standards" for the practice of Christianity in Nigeria but also seek to prevent extremism and violence, two societal ills that have proven detrimental to our nation's unity and progress.

The bill offers a legal framework, defining "Christian education" as "the process of imparting knowledge and skills about the Christian faith and its values." The "practice of Christianity" is also defined as "the observance of the tenets and principles of the Christian faith." These definitions provide a clear, encompassing view of the bill's purpose: to nurture a consistent, values-oriented practice of Christianity in Nigeria, devoid of the extremes that breed discord.

The powers granted to the National Centre for Christian Education under this bill are considerable. The Centre is expected to develop a curriculum for Christian education, accredit Christian schools and institutions, regulate the activities of Christian leaders and organizations, and even investigate and prosecute cases of abuse or misconduct within Christian institutions.

At first glance, this bill might raise eyebrows among believers who regard faith as a personal journey, not to be meddled with by legislative policies. But a deeper dive into the rationale behind this proposed law reveals a canvas broader than religious interference.

In the wake of numerous scandals involving Christian leaders and institutions in recent years, the bill emerged as an attempt to institute checks and balances within the Christian community. Cases of financial impropriety, sexual misconduct, and exploitation, often brushed under the carpet for fear of causing a scandal, have left a series of victims in their wake. Such instances have also tainted the church's reputation. The bill's provision to investigate and prosecute such cases of misconduct is a necessary step to ensure accountability.

"Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God." (Romans 13:1). Here, the Bible establishes the legitimacy of governmental authority. This provision of the bill aligns with this biblical principle, establishing an authority that would help ensure the Christian faith is practiced within the confines of ethical and moral standards.

The argument against the bill predominantly centers on the perception of it as an infringement on the right to freedom of religion. Critics argue that the bill would give the government too much power to control the practice of Christianity. However, it is important to note that regulation is not synonymous with control. A regulated practice is not necessarily a controlled practice; instead, it operates within the bounds of standards that ensure consistency and credibility.

Freedom, as appealing as it is, can be a double-edged sword when unaccompanied by responsibility. An unregulated religious sector, with the autonomy to operate without checks and balances, might foster an environment ripe for exploitation and abuse. While we must be careful not to stifle religious freedom, we cannot turn a blind eye to the potential dangers of an entirely unregulated religious sector.

In the global scene, there are precedents to such legislative policies. Countries like Germany, Austria, and Denmark have church taxes supporting registered religious organizations. Australia and Canada have regulatory bodies overseeing religious organizations. These nations have found a balance between religious freedom and regulation without degenerating into a religious crisis.

Finally, it's worth noting that the bill, if it becomes law, will have to be implemented with extreme caution. The government must strive for a judicious and respectful approach, taking care not to infringe on individual rights or to encroach on the freedom of worship. The bill's enforcement must be carried out in such a way that it serves its intended purpose - promoting peace, unity, tolerance, and accountability in religious practice.

"And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." (Micah 6:8). In our pursuit of justice, mercy, and humility, it is crucial to remember that the focus should be on the preservation of the integrity of Christian practice and the promotion of a peaceful, tolerant, and harmonious society.

The "Bill to Regulate Practice of Christianity in Nigeria" may not be perfect, but it opens a necessary conversation. As the bill moves towards becoming law, it is our collective responsibility to ensure it is shaped and implemented in a manner that respects our rights, protects the vulnerable, and preserves the sanctity of our faith.

God bless Nigeria, and may wisdom guide our paths.

Thank you.

Aderogba Otunla