U.S. Urged to Pressure Nigeria on Sharia Law Amid Rising Insecurity

Policy experts have urged U.S. lawmakers to increase diplomatic pressure on Nigeria to abolish Sharia-based criminal laws in northern states and dismantle the Hisbah religious enforcement commission. Dr. Ebenez Obadar presented a policy roadmap to address extremist-driven violence, recommending actions such as neutralizing Boko Haram, strengthening military cooperation, and abolishing Sharia laws in 12 northern states.

Testimonies at a Capitol Hill hearing alleged Nigerian government complicity in religious persecution and violence targeting Christian communities. Vice Chair Mario Díaz-Balart emphasized the need for continued pressure on Nigeria amid escalating insecurity.