Tag: Muslims

The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria has reaffirmed that Shariah is central to Muslim life in Nigeria and cannot be dictated by any foreign power. The council’s Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba Ahmad, issued the statement in response to a recent US lawmakers’ report alleging persecution of Christians in the country. Lawmakers including Riley Moore and Chris Smith had submitted recommendations to Donald Trump, urging the repeal of Shariah and blasphemy laws, the establishment of a US–Nigeria security pact, and sanctions or visa restrictions on those accused of violating religious freedom. The council described claims of “Christian genocide” in Nigeria as misleading, insisting that Shariah practice is a constitutional right for Muslims. It said Shariah provides a complete framework for personal and communal life, covering spiritual, moral, social, and legal matters. Shariah courts, the council added, operate legally under the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion and allows individuals to manage personal affairs according to their faith. It warned that attempts to delegitimise or criminalise Shariah, especially from external forces, threaten Nigeria’s sovereignty and religious freedom. The statement also highlighted that the country’s insecurity affects both Muslims and Christians and is fueled by terrorism, banditry, organised crime, and governance challenges. “The council unequivocally condemns all killings across Nigeria, mourns every innocent life lost, and rejects politicisation of human suffering,” it said, urging authorities to restore public confidence through justice and accountability. As Ramadan continues, the council called on Muslims to increase prayers, live righteously, obey the law, and maintain peaceful coexistence with all Nigerians. “Nigeria belongs to all of us. Our faith is not negotiable, our Constitution is clear, and our sovereignty must be respected by other nations and protected by our government,” it added.