Scholars say religious laws are constitutional and not open to foreign interference

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Islamic scholars in Kano State have rejected alleged calls by the United States government and Congress urging Nigeria to abolish Sharia law and dismantle the Hisbah institution.

The position was taken by a Coalition of Ulama and Islamic Organisations, which described the reported move as unwarranted interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Kano and signed by Dr Saidu Ahmad Dukawa on behalf of the coalition, the scholars said the alleged intervention was provocative and capable of undermining religious freedom in the country.

They said any attempt to pressure Nigeria into abolishing Sharia law or the Hisbah Commission shows disregard for the sovereignty of the nation and could threaten the fragile peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians.

The coalition stressed that Sharia law remains a constitutional and God given right of Muslims in Kano State and other parts of northern Nigeria, noting that it applies strictly to Muslims.

It also defended the Hisbah institution, saying it is backed by state laws passed by Houses of Assembly and rooted in Islamic teachings and local legal frameworks.

According to the scholars, Hisbah has played an important role in promoting peace, protecting places of worship including mosques and churches, and supporting security efforts during tense periods.

They warned that external pressure and misinformation could weaken inter religious harmony and urged both the federal and state governments to resist intimidation from foreign powers and remain accountable to Nigerians.

The coalition also called on Islamic scholars and clerics across the country to offer special prayers for peace and security, while urging Muslims to uphold Islamic values and continue supporting lawful religious institutions.

Source: Arise News