THEME: Religion and Politics in Nigeria

It is a settled question that the Nigerian constitution prohibits theocracy as a system of government in the country. Yet the same constitution enshrines the right of the individual to adopt and practice any religion of his choice as inalienable. In practice, governments at various levels have given recognition to religious observances. But such involvement of governments has been observed to be arbitrary since, more often than not, it is the religion of those who holds the reins of power (political or bureaucratic) at each level of government that enjoys government patronage. Consequently, adherents of different religions now openly struggle for their brethren in faith to occupy positions of power, either to consolidate government patronage of their religion or to resist and redress perceived past injustice against their religion. This struggle has generated numerous crises in Nigeria and chances are that the frequency and intensity of such crises will increase with time. Since the Nigerian constitution forbids theocracy but guarantees freedom of worship, what then should be the right mix between religion and politics in the country? Scholars will provide solutions to the problematic from different perspectives during the conference.