You Cannot Islamise Nigeria: Tense Debate Erupts in House of Reps Over Proposed Bill to Impose Sharia Law Nationwide

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House of Reps Rejects Controversial Bill to Expand Sharia Law Amid Heated Debate

A contentious session unfolded in Nigeria’s House of Representatives on Thursday as lawmakers clashed over a proposed bill seeking to broaden the scope of Sharia law in the country. The bill, which aimed to amend sections of the 1999 Constitution, would remove the term “personal” from “Islamic law,” effectively expanding its application from personal matters to potentially broader areas, including commerce.

Sponsored by Representative Aliyu Missau, the bill intended to amend sections 24, 262, 277, and 288 of the constitution, which currently restrict Sharia law to personal matters, such as family and estate issues. Missau argued that removing the term “personal” would allow Islamic commercial and international law to flourish, citing the growth of Islamic banking, such as Jaiz Bank, as a modern development the constitution did not anticipate. “The constitution did not foresee the dynamism and development that may come into the country,” Missau stated.

A Deeply Divisive Debate

The proposal sparked fierce opposition from southern lawmakers, who viewed it as a departure from Nigeria’s secular foundation. Rivers State Representative Solomon Bob highlighted that the framers of the constitution deliberately limited Islamic law to personal matters, arguing, “The word ‘personal’ was put there for a reason. If removed, it could have broader implications beyond what was intended.”

Similarly, Representative Bamidele Salam from Osun condemned the bill, reminding members of the contentious history surrounding the inclusion of Sharia in Nigeria’s legal framework. “The drafters were highly sensitive to religion,” he remarked, recalling previous constitutional debates where the scope of Sharia law was carefully limited to prevent national discord. He cautioned against any amendment that could deepen Nigeria’s religious divides.

Other northern representatives, however, voiced support for the bill. Kano State Representative Abdul Hakeem Ado argued that Islamic commercial law needs a stronger legal foundation, while Borno and Niger State representatives Ahmed Satomi and Saidu Abdullahi also backed the proposal, asserting that it reflects the cultural and religious practices of many Nigerians in the northern region.

Religious Leaders and Civil Society Respond

Outside the House, religious leaders and civil society groups expressed significant concerns. Prominent Christian leader Bishop Matthew Kuka called the bill “a dangerous precedent,” warning that any move to expand Sharia law could threaten national unity. Civil society organisations echoed these sentiments, stressing the need to uphold Nigeria’s secular identity as enshrined in the constitution.

Final Decision and Next Steps

After intense deliberations, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu called a voice vote, resulting in the bill’s rejection. However, proponents of the bill have indicated they may revisit the matter, advocating for a committee review to refine their proposal.

For now, the rejection of the bill signals a cautious approach by lawmakers wary of potential repercussions on Nigeria’s religious and social landscape. Nonetheless, the debate has highlighted the continuing tension around balancing religious practices with Nigeria’s secular framework.

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