A toll-free hotline has been launched in Taraba State to encourage residents to report violations of religious freedom.
This initiative, aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance, was introduced on Saturday during the screening of the film, ‘Bridging the Abyss’, in Jalingo, the state capital.
The hotline, 080-0000-2233, was unveiled by the Senior Project Officer at Search for Common Ground,Habiba Gazali.
Gazali emphasized the critical role the platform will play in enabling individuals to report instances where they are targeted due to their religious beliefs.
“SFCG has trained lawyers and human rights defenders to handle these cases effectively,” she said, stressing the comprehensive measures already in place to ensure the safety and protection of those who come forward with reports.
The hotline is part of a broader initiative aimed at strengthening early warning systems for religious freedom violations, not just in Taraba but across the country.
Gazali underscored the organization’s ongoing efforts to promote awareness of the right to freedom of religion and belief, urging stakeholders to go the extra mile in safeguarding these rights.
She warned that the organization would not tolerate any violations in this regard.
Taraba State Coordinator for the National Human Rights Commission, Yakubu Musa, also spoke at the event, calling on law enforcement agencies to uphold Section 38 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which enshrines the right of citizens to practice their religion freely.
He further highlighted the importance of creating a safe environment where people can worship without fear of discrimination or persecution.
The event, organized by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, drew a diverse group of attendees, including religious leaders, law enforcement officers, civil society organizations, media representatives, herders, farmers, and high-ranking state government officials.
The presence of such a wide range of stakeholders emphasized the significance of the initiative in promoting mutual respect and understanding among different religious communities in the region.
