Introduction
Nigeria is the most populous black nation on earth with a population of over 200 million people and three major religions are recognized: Christianity, Islam, and Indigenous. The country also has over 270 ethnic groups who speak over 370 languages. Because of these differences and lack of understanding among the populace, there has been increased unrest due to the low level of tolerance. To this end, this essay seeks to define some terms, examine a case study, highlight on the importance of respecting our differences, and proffer measures capable of promoting our diversity and human rights.
Definition
Freedom of religion is the right to choose what religion to follow and to worship without undue interference.
Human rights are rights that belong to an individual or group of individuals simply for being human.
Case study
Immediately I sat back to brainstorm about the topic, the name “Bola Ahmed Tinubu” popped up. Though a practicing Muslim, he has been able to peacefully live with his wife, who is not only a Christian but also a senior pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. As the head of his family, he never interfered with the choice of faith of his children. No wonder, many of his children are Christians and enjoying their fundamental human rights. This household truly demonstrates religious diversity and as the first family in the nation, they have set a worthy example for Nigerians to follow amidst our cultural and religious differences.
Importance of understanding and respecting religious and cultural differences
*Promotes peace and coexistence: When Nigerians begin to respect the choices of others, there will be less tension and increased peace, which will translate to the growth and development of all aspects of the country.
*Promotes empathy and respect for human life: As we begin to understand our differences, we will be able to put ourselves in the shoes of others when a crisis or a conflict arises. It will also help us to value the sacredness of human life.
*Prevents extremism: It’s very shocking to see Christians being killed by religious extremists due to a lack of understanding. This wouldn’t have been perpetuated if there was respect for Christians among these extremists.
*Helps one to set boundaries: Understanding and respecting the choices of others can help citizens set boundaries that will prevent them from offending others while upholding human dignity.
*Attraction of investors: Multiple investors will troop in mass when we learn how to respect the choices of others. Since every investor longs for a conducive environment where their venture can thrive, understanding our differences will transform us into the developed world.
*Breeds tolerance: From the case study examined, it is safe to say that when one understands and respects the religious and cultural differences of others, it will breed tolerance and promote diversity. Many of the human right issues going on in Nigeria is due to a lack of understanding of our differences. When we understand ourselves, we will be able to tolerate unpremeditated mistakes, which is an inevitable characteristic of the human race.
The way forward
* Reciprocating NYSC lessons to the populace: During my service year at Katsina State, Corp members irrespective of their religious or cultural affiliations teamed to keep the camp running peacefully. By 5 a.m., Christians will wake Muslims worn out from camp activities to go for prayers while the Muslims also reciprocate this on Sundays for Christians. We respected each other’s choices and cared for one another. As I thought over this experience, I told a friend that Nigeria would be great when we extend this attitude to others after camp.
*Tasking leaders to preach tolerance: It’s very common for followers to follow instructions “hook, line, and sinker” from their leaders in Nigeria. Admonishing religious and cultural leaders to preach tolerance and be worthy examples for their followers is an effective way to promote inclusion and human rights.
*Proper parenting: It is unfortunate that parents tasked with the first responsibility of training children sow seeds of hatred in the hearts of these kids against people with different affiliations. For instance, the Tiv and Igede tribes don’t relate and hardly marry due to counsel from their ancestors. This trend has moved on from generation to generation. To this end, parents should teach their children how to love and respect others.
*Enlightenment campaigns: The limited diversity and abused human rights faced by Nigerians are because of a lack of awareness. It’s important for public campaigns, workshops, and seminars to be regularly conducted online and offline to educate the populace on how to set boundaries that will prevent discrimination against others' choices.
*Shunning nepotism: When there is nepotism in favour of a cultural or religious group, it frustrates the diversity and participation of those ostracized. It is pertinent for leaders to carry everyone along to promote togetherness and unity.
*Provision of a level playing ground: Skewing opportunities to favor a minority because of their choice while the majority suffer does not promote diversity and human rights. To this end, a level playing ground should be provided for everyone to thrive in spite of choices made.
*Enacting laws: From my observation, I noticed that politicians often use the scorecards of religion and culture to create tension for political gains. I propose the enactment of laws that will bar anyone found guilty from contesting for public office.
*Criminalizing all forms of discrimination: Due to the absence of strong enforcement against discriminators, the menace has continued unabated. As a measure of last resort, it is important for stakeholders to employ this measure to promote freedom of religion and culture among the citizens. It will also promote the expression of citizens’ rights and serve as a deterrent to potential perpetrators.
Conclusion
Since the majority of us have been guilty, let’s dust ourselves and adopt the measure proffered in this essay to promote freedom of choice for the promotion of diversity and human rights.
References
https://www.ohchr.org/en/topic/freedom-religion
https://www.britanica.com/topic/human-rights
https://rpl.hds.harvard.edu/religion-context/country-profiles/nigeria
www.ajol.info/tolerance-in-multi-religious