The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has rejected a proposal by US lawmakers calling for changes to the practice of Sharia law in Nigeria.
Sharia operates alongside statutory and customary law in the country and is implemented mainly in 12 northern states, where it was adopted in 1999 as a principal body of civil and criminal law. It is regarded by Muslims as a religious, moral, and legal framework guiding various aspects of life.
Some US lawmakers have called for the repeal of Sharia in Nigeria, citing allegations of Christian persecution. The federal government has previously dismissed such claims.
The renewed call was highlighted in a report released on Monday and submitted to the White House.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Secretary-General, Nafiu Ahmad, the SCSN rejected the position of the US lawmakers. The council stated that Sharia represents a comprehensive way of life for Muslims, covering spiritual, moral, social, and legal dimensions.
The council said no authority can compel Muslims to abandon the practice of their faith due to external pressure, misinformation, or political intimidation.
It added that Sharia practice in Nigeria is backed by constitutional provisions guaranteeing freedom of religion and allowing citizens to regulate personal matters according to their beliefs.
Describing Nigeria as a sovereign and multi-religious nation with a plural legal system, the council said external interference undermines the country’s sovereignty, constitutional order, and the principle of religious freedom.
The SCSN also dismissed claims of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria, arguing that such assertions misrepresent the country’s security challenges.
According to the council, the violence affecting Nigeria stems from terrorism, banditry, organised crime, and governance issues, impacting both Muslims and Christians.
It maintained that portraying the crisis as a one-sided religious genocide is inaccurate and unhelpful.
