The Student Christian Movement (SCM) of Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the increasing marginalisation and denial of religious rights of Christian students, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
In a communiqué jointly signed by the National Secretary, Mr. Isuosuo Okeoghene, and the Chairperson of the Communiqué Committee, Dr. Orekyeh Emeka, at the conclusion of its 85th Anniversary and 33rd National Biennial Conference themed “Restore: Rebuild, Renew and Restore”, the Movement lamented the growing insecurity in the country, especially the continued attacks and killings of Christians in Benue and Plateau States.
“SCM observes with dismay the palpable insecurity in Nigeria, particularly the unrelenting killings of Nigerians—especially Christians—in Benue and Plateau States. The response from government authorities, security agencies, and relevant organisations has been far from satisfactory,” the communiqué stated.
The group also condemned the arbitrary closure of schools in some Northern states during the Ramadan period, noting that the blanket one-month holiday in both public and private schools negatively impacts both Muslim and non-Muslim students.
Furthermore, SCM raised alarm over cases of forced abduction, conversion, and marriage of Christian girls in Northern Nigeria. It cited the case of Sister Mary Ishaya in Niger State, who was reportedly abducted, forcibly converted to Islam, and allegedly set to be married off to one Bello Shuaibu Nasco. Despite reports to relevant government agencies, SCM said no concrete action had been taken to address the matter.
The Movement also criticized policies and practices in some secondary and tertiary institutions that deny Christian students the right to freely assemble and hold fellowship, describing them as a direct infringement on the constitutional right to religious freedom.
Despite these challenges, SCM commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government for introducing policies that promote youth empowerment and entrepreneurship. It specifically lauded the Student Loans Scheme, describing it as a lifeline for many underprivileged students across the country.
The Movement called for greater efforts by the government to uphold justice, equality, and religious freedom, urging prompt intervention in cases where the rights of Christian students are being violated.
