David Smith

David Smith

Labour — North Northumberland

Speaking in the House of Commons on 13 January 2026

Debate

Nigeria: Freedom of Religion or Belief

Contribution

As I said in answer to the previous intervention, I do agree that it is very important for us not to have segmented or siloed relationships with other countries; we need to treat our relationships holistically. I look forward to the Minister’s response, because I know the Government are doing a lot—they regularly raise cases of freedom of religion or belief with counterparts in foreign Governments. My view is that we need to have a holistic relationship with other countries, and that includes freedom of religion or belief. Let me quickly move to the issue of legal suppression of freedoms. Freedom House reports that in Nigeria, “State and local governments have been known to endorse de facto official religions in their territory, placing limits on other religious activity.” So-called apostasy and blasphemy laws have spread into Nigeria’s social and legal landscape, often led by regional or local Governments. Twelve northern states have enacted the sharia penal code, which Christian Solidarity Worldwide reports is effectively creating a “state religion”, in violation of Nigeria’s constitution.

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