Governor Charles Soludo’s recent declaration of Anambra State as a “Christian state” has raised significant concerns regarding its alignment with Nigeria’s constitutional principles of secularism and religious freedom. This petition seeks to address these concerns and uphold the rights enshrined in the nation’s constitution.

Petition Title:

Uphold Constitutional Secularism: Oppose the Declaration of Anambra State as a “Christian State”

Introduction:

We, the undersigned cultural and traditional citizens of Anambra, express our deep concern over Governor Charles Soludo’s recent characterization of Anambra State as a “Christian state.” This declaration appears to contravene the secular nature of our State and the constitutional rights of Nigeria guaranteeing freedom of religion.

 

Constitutional Context:

The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria explicitly provides for freedom of religion and prohibits the adoption of any state religion:

Section 10: “The Government of the Federation or of a State shall not adopt any religion as State Religion.” 

Section 38(1): “Every person shall be entitled to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, including freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom (either alone or in community with others, and in public or in private) to manifest and propagate his religion or belief in worship, teaching, practice and observance.” 

These provisions underscore Nigeria’s commitment to secular governance and the protection of individual religious freedoms.

Concerns Raised:

Governor Soludo’s statement has elicited criticism from various quarters. For instance, practitioners of indigenous spirituality in Anambra State have expressed that such a declaration misrepresents the state’s diverse religious heritage and undermines the cultural identity of non-Christian communities. 

 

Furthermore, such a proclamation risks alienating citizens of other faiths and could foster division within the state.

 

Our Demands:

We respectfully call upon Governor Charles Soludo to:

1: Retract the Declaration: Publicly withdraw the statement identifying Anambra State as a “Christian state.”

2: Affirm Secularism: Reaffirm the state’s commitment to secular governance, ensuring that no religion is given preferential status.

3: Promote Religious Inclusivity: Implement policies and initiatives that respect and celebrate the diverse religious beliefs of all Anambra State residents.

 

Call to Action:

We urge all citizens who believe in equality, justice, and constitutional rule to sign this petition and hold our leaders accountable.

By doing so, we stand together in upholding the principles of secularism and ensuring that Anambra State remains a place where cultural heritage is respected.

Together, we can ensure that Anambra State remains a place where everyone is free without the fear of favoritism.

Before I digress, allow me to  make this clarification that I used “Religion” in totality for the context of this petition, that been said, I want to Remind Governor Charles Soludo that ODINALA IGBO is not a religion, it is our cultural identity and heritage while’s Christianity is an adopted religion.

 

May we stand together, firmly, and unapologetically defend our heritage and culture and never allow the Legacy of our ancestors to be ridiculed.

petition writer:

Maazi Chukwujekwu Nnamdi

Alias: Azuanuka:

Media Spokesperson and Aid for:

MAAZI DIBIA CULTURAL FOUNDATION 

Petition Approved by:

MAAZI DIBIA CULTURAL FOUNDATION