BY IRIBHOGBE BUKUNOLA MONSURAT
In every democratic society, citizens are entitled to their opinions, beliefs, and religious convictions. However, when personal beliefs are weaponised to threaten, intimidate, or dehumanise others, society must speak out firmly against such dangerous extremism. Across Nigeria, some radical voices hiding behind religion have continued to fuel hostility against people involved in same-sex relationships, creating an atmosphere of fear, hatred, and violence that undermines national unity and human dignity.
Nigeria is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious nation governed by law, not mob sentiment or extremist interpretations of religion. No individual or group has the moral or legal authority to harass, threaten, or incite violence against fellow citizens because of their sexual orientation or personal lifestyle. The growing trend of inflammatory rhetoric from religious hardliners is not only reckless but deeply harmful to Nigeria’s image as a modern democratic state.
It is important to distinguish between peaceful religious beliefs and fanaticism. Every Nigerian has the constitutional right to practise religion freely and express moral opinions. But there is a dangerous line between expressing beliefs and promoting hatred. When religious figures or extremist supporters encourage public hostility, intimidation, or discrimination, they create conditions that can easily lead to violence and abuse.
History has repeatedly shown the dangers of fanaticism in any form. Societies that allow intolerance to flourish often experience increased division, fear, and instability. Nigeria already faces serious challenges ranging from insecurity and poverty to unemployment and corruption. The country does not need additional social tension created by individuals who exploit religion to attack vulnerable groups instead of promoting peace, compassion, and coexistence.
Many young Nigerians today are increasingly embracing the values of tolerance, dialogue, and human rights. They understand that disagreement should never translate into hatred. A society becomes stronger when it protects minorities and guarantees the safety and dignity of every citizen, regardless of differences in identity, belief, or lifestyle.
Religious leaders who genuinely care about national peace should focus on promoting moral persuasion through peaceful dialogue rather than hostile rhetoric. Threats, public condemnation campaigns, and attempts to silence opposing views only deepen divisions and encourage extremism. No Nigerian deserves to live in fear because of who they are or because their lifestyle differs from the beliefs of others.
The international community is also watching closely. Countries that tolerate hate-driven extremism often suffer reputational damage, diplomatic criticism, and reduced global confidence. Nigeria must demonstrate that it remains committed to justice, tolerance, and the protection of human dignity for all citizens.
At this critical moment, Nigerians must reject every form of extremism and defend the principles of peaceful coexistence. Differences in belief are inevitable in a diverse society, but hatred and intimidation should never be accepted as tools of public discourse. A better Nigeria can only emerge when compassion triumphs over fanaticism and when humanity is valued above prejudice.