Islamic leaders reject US call on Sharia, blasphemy laws
Islamic leaders in Nigeria have rejected a recommendation by a United States congressional panel asking the Federal Government to scrap Sharia and blasphemy laws, saying the demand touches on national sovereignty, the constitution and fragile interfaith relations in the country. Those who spoke include an official of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs who asked not to be named, Sheikh Sidi Munir of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, Sheikh Nurudeen Khalid, former Chief Imam of the National Assembly Legislative Quarters Juma’at Mosque in Abuja, and Professor Ishaq Akintola, Executive Director of Muslim Rights Concern. The US panel’s report followed hearings, expert consultations and fact-finding visits to Nigeria and suggested possible sanctions, visa bans and a new security partnership to protect vulnerable communities, while also urging Nigeria to show clear action against religious persecution and insecurity. Responding, the NSCIA official […]