While the federal constitution provides for religious freedom, in practice religious freedom has been severely restricted in recent years, especially in some of the northern states. Constitutionally, Nigeria is a secular state prohibited from favoring any religion. However, Nigeria has joined the organization of Islamic states raising objections from some non-Muslims.
Since the return to civilian government in 1999, Nigeria has experienced a difficult period of religious tension rife with numerous outbreaks of violence between Muslims and Christians. The constitution permits individual states to expand the jurisdiction of Sharia (Islamic law) within their domain. In 2000, over 2000 people died in riots related to religious strife. The primary cause for the violence has been the adaptation of Sharia law by state governments. Ten of the predominantly Muslim northern states have adopted Sharia law. Tensions have been aggravated in some areas by the rise of vigilante groups formed for the purpose of enforcing Sharia.
Due to the incidence of inter-religious violence, the government has limited the freedom of religious groups to conduct assemblies outside of their main buildings. Disagreement exists over religious education in schools. Proselytizing is restricted in some areas of the country. Discrimination in employment based on religious affiliation takes place on both national and local levels.
2003 U.S. State Department International Religious Freedom Report on Nigeria
International Christian Concern Report on Nigeria
Nigerian Christians accused of 'genocide' WorldWide Religious News 5/06/04
Hundreds slaughtered in religious fighting WorldWide Religious News 5/06/04
Search Amazon.com for books on religious freedom in NIgeria