A film screening in Port Harcourt has ignited a powerful conversation about religious tolerance and human rights, and how to empower young people to become champions for change.
Organized by Search for Common Ground (SFCG) on March 12, the event, titled, “Bridging the Abyss,” brought together tertiary students from across Rivers State for a screening of a film highlighting the importance of respecting diverse religious beliefs.
The film, funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Nigeria, explored the challenges and triumphs of individuals protecting Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) in Nigeria. Its compelling narrative, focused on raising awareness about religious tolerance and human rights and empowering young people to champion this cause.
The film prompted lively discussions among the students about the role of education in promoting understanding and acceptance.
A panel discussion featuring human rights advocates further emphasized the need for tolerance and respect, saying “Where one’s right stops is where another’s begin.”
Mrs. Okoro Chinwe of the National Human Rights Commission urged students to report instances of religious discrimination.
Prof. Steve Wodu of the University of Port Harcourt’s Sociology Department and Mr. Obaka Dukubo highlighted the importance of embracing diversity and challenging ethnocentrism.
Katlong Dasat, Senior Media Officer for the project, explained the motivation behind the film thus, “We have seen that we need to reach young people and stakeholders in the cities to understand the need for acceptance and religious tolerance.
“Nigeria is a diverse country with people practicing different religions or beliefs.
For us to coexist and enjoy the beauty of diversity, it is imperative that we showcase, through art, some of the champions who protect freedom of religion or belief in Nigeria.
That way, people can learn by observation and see why they should accept others.”
Gaius Dachet, the Project Manager and Religious Engagement Specialist of SFCG Nigeria, said the aim to cultivate FoRB Champions—individuals committed to standing against religious discrimination and defending people’s rights to their faith and beliefs.
“Every person has the fundamental right to practice their religion without fear of persecution or marginalization,” said Dachet.
The event left a lasting impact on the students. “I realized that one of the biggest problems of religion is that many of us are not willing to learn about other people’s beliefs,” shared Okain Ebitimi, a 300-level Management student at the University of Port Harcourt. “We can change this if we make an effort to learn about other religions and accept them.”
Solomon Michael, a 300-level Journalism student at Rivers State University, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Protecting human rights is vital. We need to understand, respect, and foster inclusivity to create a safer space for everyone, now and in the future.”
The “Bridging the Abyss” film screening provided a powerful platform for advocacy and education, equipping young minds with the understanding necessary to champion religious freedom and human rights in their communities. By encouraging dialogue and promoting empathy, the event served as a catalyst for positive change in Rivers State.
