The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has declared that Shariah practice is divinely mandated and central to Muslim life, warning that no external power can compel Nigerian Muslims to abandon it.
Secretary-General Nafiu Baba Ahmad issued the statement in response to a report by US lawmakers Riley Moore and Chris Smith.
Their report to President Donald Trump recommended repealing Shariah and blasphemy laws, creating a US–Nigeria security pact, and imposing penalties on alleged violators of religious freedom.
The council said the report wrongly portrays Nigeria as a site of “Christian genocide” and unfairly challenges Muslims’ right to practise Shariah.
“Shariah constitutes a comprehensive way of life for Muslims, encompassing spiritual, moral, social, and legal dimensions,” the statement read.
The SCSN said that Shariah courts operate legally under Nigeria’s Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion.
It warned that attempts to criminalize or externally dictate Shariah practice threaten sovereignty and religious freedom.
The council rejected what it sees as foreign interference, although it condemned all killings across Nigeria, and said insecurity affects both Muslims and Christians.
It urged authorities to restore public confidence through justice and accountability.
As Ramadan continues, the council called on Muslims to intensify prayers, remain law-abiding, and live peacefully with all Nigerians.
“Nigeria belongs to all of us. Our faith is not negotiable, our Constitution is clear, and our sovereignty must be respected,” it added.
While Nigeria is a secular state, its constitution expressly recognized the Islamic religion but is silent on all other religions, including Christianity.
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