Shariah Council Rejects Foreign Pressure on Nigerian Muslims

The Shariah Council of Nigeria (SCN) firmly stated that no external power can force Nigerian Muslims to abandon the practice of Shariah law, emphasizing that it is a divine mandate central to Muslim life. This declaration was made in response to a recent report by U.S. lawmakers, which included recommendations for repealing blasphemy laws and suggested penalties, including visa bans, for violations of religious freedom in Nigeria.

The SCN criticized the report for misrepresenting the situation in Nigeria, particularly regarding allegations of Christian genocide, and argued that it unfairly challenges the inalienable rights of Nigerian Muslims to practice Shariah. The council highlighted that Shariah encompasses spiritual, moral, social, and legal dimensions of life and operates within the constitutional framework that guarantees freedom of religion.

They warned that attempts to criminalize or delegitimize Shariah practices threaten Nigeria's sovereignty and religious freedom, urging the government to take decisive action against insecurity and restore public confidence in justice.