The Catholic Church in Nigeria has strongly opposed the Federal Government’s reported plan to legalize abortion, citing constitutional and moral concerns.
Key Points:
- Legalization contradicts Nigeria’s Constitution (Section 33), guaranteeing the right to life
- Church advocates for reproductive health education, not abortion
- Abortion undermines human dignity and promotes “culture of death”
- Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria urges Nigerians to reject legalization
Statement by Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria:
“Rather than enthrone the culture of death… the government should place a premium on the sacred dignity and love owed to the human person.”
Context:
- Federal Ministry of Health’s Health Promotion Department reviewing Criminal Code to decriminalize abortion
- Proponents argue legalization would reduce maternal deaths and provide safe terminations
- Opponents, including the Catholic Church, emphasize human dignity and right to life
Source: Vanguard News
