ONITSHA, Nigeria — A civil society organisation has accused governors in Nigeria’s South-East region of adopting policies that it says are restricting the practice of Christianity, raising concerns about religious freedom in the area.
The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law, also known as Intersociety, made the allegations in a statement issued on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, in Onitsha, singling out Charles Soludo among regional leaders.
“Intersociety has observed and is deeply worried that the present governors of Eastern Nigeria… are politically disappearing Christianity slowly and steadily and making practice of the sacred faith very difficult,” the statement said.
Allegations of Policy Impact
The group said it had identified what it described as “religiously unfriendly policies” across several states, alleging that these measures were making it increasingly difficult for Christians to practise their faith.
It also claimed that the situation reflected a broader pattern across the region, suggesting that Christianity was facing what it described as a “destructive political dimension.”
“Christianity… is presently facing a destructive political dimension… to the extent that other religious practices are given more attention, recognition and protection,” the organisation said.
Concerns Over Religious Balance
Intersociety said the trend pointed to an imbalance in how religious activities are treated, despite Christianity being widely practised in the South-East.
The group warned that continued inaction could weaken established religious institutions and practices in the region.
The organisation also criticised what it described as a lack of response from church leaders across denominations, alleging that some authorities had not adequately addressed the developments.
Efforts to obtain a response from the Anambra State Government were unsuccessful as of press time.
The allegations come amid broader discussions about governance, religious practice and civil liberties in Nigeria’s South-East.
