By Emem Idio

The Izon Cultural Heritage Centre (ICHC) has welcomed the judgment of the Federal High Court sitting in Warri, describing it as a significant affirmation of the supremacy of the Constitution and the right to freedom of religion.

In a statement signed by its Secretary, Comrade Ellington Bakumor, the Centre said the ruling reinforces the constitutional guarantee that every Nigerian is free to practise his or her religion without intimidation or interference.

The judgment, delivered on 29 June 2026, addressed the invasion and destruction of the Osuopele Benesede Opu-Oru Shrine in Ojobo, Delta State, on 20 December 2024.

The court found Prophet Tamarauebi Elisha Owan and members of the Greatgod Holy Tabernacle liable for the incident. It ruled that the actions violated the constitutional rights of the shrine’s worshippers to freely practise their religion.

The court held that the respondents’ actions were unconstitutional and discriminatory, contrary to Sections 10 and 38 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

The court ordered the respondents to rebuild the destroyed shrine, pay ₦205 million in general damages, exemplary damages, and litigation costs, publish public apologies in two national daily newspapers, and maintain a 10-kilometre distance from the temple and its practitioners via a restraining order.

Bakumor said the judgment sends a strong message that no individual or group has the right to interfere with another’s place of worship.

He commended the judge for what he described as a courageous decision that strengthens constitutional protections for religious freedom.

“Traditional worship, like every other legally recognized faith, enjoys constitutional protection. Differences in religious belief should inspire dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect rather than hostility or acts of destruction,” Bakumor stated.

The ICHC commended the worshippers for pursuing justice through the courts rather than self-help.

“This judgment should serve as a deterrent to future violations and as a reminder that attacks on religious and cultural heritage are attacks on the constitutional rights of citizens,” he added.

Bakumor called on religious leaders, traditional institutions, civil society, and government agencies to promote religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

The Centre expressed hope that the ruling will encourage dialogue and mutual respect among different faiths in Nigeria.