Islamic clerics and political leaders in Nigeria have criticised recommendations by committees of the United States Congress calling for the repeal of Sharia codes and anti-blasphemy laws. The proposals were contained in a joint report by the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Appropriations Committee, submitted to the White House on Monday, which alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria and urged punitive measures.
The report recommended a bilateral agreement to protect Christian communities, the disarmament of Fulani militias, possible sanctions, visa restrictions and a review of Nigeria’s security partnerships, including divestment from Russian military equipment. It also called for blocking beef exports to countries including Ivory Coast, Ghana, South Africa and Senegal, and for the repeal of Sharia and criminal blasphemy laws in northern states.
Kaduna-based clerics Ahmad Gumi and Sheikh Halliru Maraya rejected the claims, saying violence in Nigeria affects both Muslims and Christians. Former Northern Elders Forum spokesman Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed described the recommendations as provocative, while political scientist Professor Jibrin Ibrahim and former ambassador Ibrahim Kawu said the United States had no authority to dictate Nigeria’s security policy.
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The Federal Government, through Information Minister Mohammed Idris, said the report should serve as a catalyst for broader cooperation. He stated that Nigeria does not have a policy of religious persecution and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to constitutional protections, ongoing counter-terrorism operations and engagement with the United States through diplomatic channels.
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