The Christian Association of Nigeria has disclosed that an appeal has been filed against the reported conviction and imprisonment of a Christian woman in Borno State, calling on authorities to ensure that her fundamental rights are protected.

CAN said the case involving the woman, identified in circulating reports as Lami Dawa, raised important constitutional questions, particularly concerning freedom of religion and the right of individuals to choose and practise their faith.

The association, however, said the judicial process should be allowed to run its course amid ongoing efforts to establish the precise circumstances of the case and the legal basis for the woman’s conviction.

The CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement issued on Saturday, said the association was monitoring developments and would engage relevant authorities through appropriate legal and institutional channels.

“Nevertheless, the case raises important questions about the protection of religious freedom and the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.

Okoh maintained that no individual should be subjected to coercion, intimidation or unlawful punishment for exercising the right to choose, change or practise a religion.

“The association believes that every individual has the right to freely choose, change or practise their religion or belief without coercion, intimidation or unlawful punishment,” he added.

The CAN president urged the relevant authorities to ensure that the rights of all parties involved were protected and that the case was handled in accordance with the Constitution and applicable laws.

He also reiterated the association’s commitment to peaceful coexistence among Nigerians of different religious backgrounds, stressing that the protection of fundamental rights should remain central to the administration of justice.

“CAN remains committed to the peaceful coexistence of Nigerians of all religious backgrounds and to the protection of the fundamental rights and freedoms of every citizen,” he said.