Monarch clarifies religious jurisdiction amid calls for national unity
The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has made a definitive statement regarding the application of Sharia law in Nigeria.
He asserted that it is completely wrong for Christians to be taken to Sharia courts or compelled to follow Sharia rules. The monarch made this crucial clarification during the opening of the 2025 meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) in Abuja on Wednesday.
The high-level meeting was themed “Collaboration of Inter-Religious Council with Government to Promote Peace in Nigeria,” setting the context for the Sultan’s address on religious harmony. The Sultan clearly explained that Sharia is strictly applicable only to Muslims. He emphasized that no Christian should ever be forced to dress, act, or pray in a manner prescribed by Islamic tenets. This statement serves as a powerful defense of religious freedom and tolerance.
Nigeria is a multi-religious state that respects all faiths
The Sultan stressed that Nigeria is fundamentally a multi-religious country, and not a secular state, arguing that this distinction is crucial for understanding its constitutional framework. He noted that the government provides support for both Islam and Christianity, but neither is adopted as a state religion. This balance ensures that all citizens are free to practice their faith without fear of interference or coercion.
In a related context, the Sultan also rejected recent, recurring calls to scrap Sharia law from the country’s legal system. He firmly stated that Nigeria’s constitutional provision allows all religions to practice their customs and laws freely. He affirmed that this religious freedom is a constitutional right that must be upheld and respected for all faiths across the nation.
Political and religious leaders call for collaboration
The event drew high-profile attendance from political and religious leaders who collectively spoke on the pressing need for peace and unity. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, called for stronger cooperation between NIREC and the Federal Government to help combat insecurity and build a stable society. He warned that extremist groups are actively attempting to use religious differences to fracture the country’s unity.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, acknowledged that Nigeria is currently facing serious challenges, including political tension, declining trust among citizens, and widespread insecurity. Akume also highlighted the issue of Nigeria being misrepresented internationally due to misinformation about its security environment. He assured the public that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting the lives and property of all citizens.
NIREC leaders seek closer partnership with government
The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, echoed the concerns about the nation being at a dangerous point in its history, with insecurity threatening national cohesion. Archbishop Okoh underscored the significant role religious institutions can play, noting that they enjoy a high degree of public trust. He called for a closer partnership between the government and religious groups to foster community dialogue and promote religious tolerance.
Similarly, the Executive Secretary of NIREC, Rev. Fr. Cornelius Omonokhua, emphasized the necessity for religious leaders to work more closely with the government to defeat terrorism and banditry. He asserted the sanctity of every human life, urging all leaders to unite in the effort to protect the populace. Rev. Fr. Omonokhua concluded his remarks by praying for wisdom for Nigerian leaders and for a positive change of heart for criminals across the nation.
