The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria has rejected calls from some United States lawmakers asking Nigeria to stop the practice of Sharia law.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the council said such calls are based on wrong information and show a lack of respect for Nigeria’s independence.
Sharia law operates in parts of northern Nigeria. It works alongside statutory law and customary law. Since 1999, 12 northern states have adopted Sharia as part of their legal system, mainly for civil and criminal matters involving Muslims.
The council’s Secretary General, Nafiu Ahmad, said Sharia is not just a legal system but a way of life for Muslims. He said it cannot be removed because of pressure from outside the country.
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“No power or authority can force Muslims to give up their religious practice because of external pressure or political intimidation,” the statement said.
The council explained that Nigeria’s Constitution allows freedom of religion. It said Muslims have the right to manage personal and family matters, such as marriage and inheritance, according to their faith.
The statement also addressed claims by some foreign lawmakers that Christians are being targeted or facing genocide in Nigeria. The council described that claim as false and misleading.
According to the SCSN, Nigeria’s security problems affect both Muslims and Christians. It said violence in the country is caused by terrorism, banditry, organised crime and weak governance — not simply religion.
“The security crisis has claimed the lives of Muslims and Christians alike,” the council said. “Describing it only as religious persecution is inaccurate and unhelpful.”
Nigeria is a multi-religious country with different legal systems. Federal laws apply across the country. Customary courts handle traditional matters in many communities. Sharia courts operate in some northern states for Muslims who choose to use them.
Debate over Sharia has existed for many years. Supporters say it reflects the wishes of Muslim-majority states. Critics argue that it raises concerns about rights and fairness.
For the Sharia council, however, the main issue is sovereignty. It said decisions about Nigeria’s legal system should be made by Nigerians, not foreign governments.
The council ended its statement by calling for respect for Nigeria’s diversity and legal structure. It warned that outside interference in religious matters could create more tension instead of solving problems.
As discussions continue at home and abroad, the issue highlights the sensitive link between religion, law and national identity in Nigeria.
