Nigeria Denies Blasphemy Allegations, Insists on Religious Freedom and Rule of Law

The Federal Government has dismissed claims that Nigeria engages in religious persecution, maintaining that its legal system does not recognise blasphemy as a crime and that existing public-order laws protect all faiths equally.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Ahmed, stated this on Wednesday during a briefing with members of the diplomatic corps in Abuja. He explained that while Sharia laws operate in some northern states, they apply solely to Muslims and remain subject to oversight by the secular judiciary.

Ahmed emphasised that both Christian and Muslim institutions continue to function freely across the country, promoting peace and coexistence. He said Nigeria’s democracy remains strong and inclusive, not one marked by religious hostility.

“Nigeria’s national legal framework contains no offence of blasphemy. The existing public-order laws are religion-neutral and protect all communities equally from incitement to violence,” Ahmed said.

He stressed that Nigeria’s diversity is its strength and that the nation’s constitution, courts, and security institutions remain vital in preventing sectarian violence and intolerance.

Describing recent international comments as “unfounded and disparaging,” the government reaffirmed its commitment to peace, security, and cooperation among nations. Ahmed said the global community must adopt mutual respect and factual understanding when engaging with Nigeria’s religious and political context.