In a bold assertion that has reignited debates over Nigeria’s legal pluralism, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has declared that the country’s constitution permits the establishment of Shariah courts in any state. Naija247news gathered that the statement was made during a high-level meeting of Islamic scholars and legal experts in Abuja, sparking discussions about the intersection of religion, law, and federalism in Nigeria.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!According to Naija247news, the NSCIA, the apex body for Islamic affairs in Nigeria, argued that the 1999 Constitution, particularly Section 277, provides a legal framework for the creation of Shariah courts. The council emphasized that these courts are not only constitutional but also essential for addressing the needs of Muslim communities. “The constitution guarantees the right of states to establish Shariah courts, and this is in line with the principles of justice and fairness,” said Professor Ishaq Oloyede, Secretary-General of the NSCIA, in a statement obtained by Naija247news.
Naija247news understands that the declaration comes amid ongoing tensions over the role of Shariah in Nigeria’s legal system, particularly in the northern states where it is already operational. While Shariah courts primarily handle civil and family matters for Muslims, their existence has often been a point of contention in the country’s diverse and multi-religious society. Critics argue that the expansion of Shariah courts could deepen religious divisions and undermine the secular nature of the Nigerian state.
However, the NSCIA has dismissed such concerns, insisting that Shariah courts operate within the confines of the law and do not impose Islamic law on non-Muslims. Naija247news reports that the council has called for greater understanding and tolerance, urging Nigerians to respect the constitutional rights of all religious groups. “Shariah courts are not a threat to national unity. They are a reflection of our diversity and a testament to the flexibility of our legal system,” Professor Oloyede added.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions across the country. While many Muslims have welcomed the NSCIA’s stance, describing it as a victory for religious freedom, others have expressed reservations. Human rights groups and legal experts have cautioned against any move that could exacerbate Nigeria’s religious and ethnic fault lines. “We must tread carefully to ensure that the rights of all citizens are protected,” said Barrister Femi Falana, a prominent human rights lawyer, in an interview with Naija247news.
As the debate continues, the NSCIA’s declaration has placed the spotlight on Nigeria’s constitutional framework and its ability to accommodate diverse legal systems. Naija247news gathered that the issue is likely to remain a contentious topic as the country grapples with the challenges of unity in diversity.
