The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, has reaffirmed that Christians must not, under any circumstances, be subjected to Sharia law or court processes designed exclusively for Muslims.
He made the statement on Wednesday at the opening of the 2025 triennial meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), in Abuja.
The event, themed “Collaboration of Inter-Religious Council with Government to Promote Peace in Nigeria,” brought together influential religious and political leaders committed to strengthening national harmony.
Sharia is for Muslims Alone, Not Non-Adherents
Addressing participants, the Sultan stressed that Sharia is strictly for Muslims, reiterating that it must not be imposed on Christians in any form — whether through dress codes, religious practices, or legal obligations.
He noted that Nigeria is a multi-religious nation, where government supports the practice and growth of both major religions without adopting any as a state religion. According to Abubakar, the country’s stability depends on respecting these constitutional realities.
Responding to recent public calls for the abolition of Sharia, the Sultan said Nigerians are free to practice their faiths without fear or interference, urging political and religious leaders to avoid actions or rhetoric capable of inflaming religious tensions.
He maintained that peaceful coexistence remains the foundation of Nigeria’s unity.
Lawmakers Call for Stronger Collaboration Against Extremism
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, also addressed the gathering, calling for deepened collaboration between NIREC and the Federal Government in combating insecurity and rising extremism.
Tajudeen warned that extremist groups continue to exploit religious divisions in their attempts to undermine national unity. He commended NIREC’s sustained efforts in promoting interfaith harmony and pledged the commitment of the House to support and implement practical recommendations that emerge from the meeting.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to National Security
Also speaking at the event, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, highlighted the country’s internal security challenges and the erosion of public trust in governance.
Akume noted that Nigeria continues to suffer from negative portrayals abroad, often fueled by distorted narratives about its security situation.
He assured the audience that the Federal Government remains committed to safeguarding its citizens, urging religious and traditional leaders to intensify their roles in strengthening peace and stability across communities.
Faith Leaders Call for Unity, Moral Renewal
The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described the persistent insecurity across the nation as one of the greatest threats to Nigeria’s coexistence. He called for expanded cooperation between the government and faith-based organisations, stressing that religious institutions possess the reach and credibility necessary for effective peacebuilding.
Similarly, NIREC Executive Secretary, Rev. Fr. Cornelius Omonokhua, emphasized the need for coordinated action against terrorism and banditry.
He insisted that every Nigerian life must be protected, regardless of region or religion, and urged Nigerians to embrace unity, behavioural change, and renewed commitment to shared national values.
A Call to Preserve Nigeria’s Religious Balance
By reiterating that Christians must never be subjected to Sharia law, the Sultan of Sokoto reaffirmed a critical constitutional and moral principle that has long underpinned Nigeria’s pluralistic society. His message, delivered at an interfaith gathering dedicated to peace, underscores the importance of mutual respect, legal clarity, and responsible leadership in a country where diversity is both a strength and a challenge.
The NIREC meeting concluded with a renewed commitment among religious and political leaders to work together in building a more secure, harmonious, and united Nigeria.