The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, has reaffirmed that Christians should not be subjected to Sharia law or any court processes intended exclusively for Muslims.
He stated this 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 key religious and political leaders.
Abubakar said Sharia is strictly for Muslims and should not be imposed on non-Muslims in any form, including dress or religious practice.
He emphasised that Nigeria operates a multi-religious country where government supports the growth of both major religions without adopting any as a state religion.
Responding to recent calls for the abolition of Sharia, the Sultan said Nigerians are free to practice their faith without interference and urged leaders to avoid actions that could inflame religious tension.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, also addressed the gathering, urging stronger collaboration between NIREC and the Federal Government to counter insecurity and rising extremism.
He warned that extremists continue to exploit religious divisions to undermine national unity.
Tajudeen commended NIREC’s efforts in promoting harmony and said the House is ready to support practical recommendations that emerge from the meeting.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, highlighted the impact of internal security challenges and declining public trust.
He said Nigeria also faces misrepresentation abroad, often driven by distorted narratives about its security situation.
Akume assured that government would continue to prioritise citizens’ safety, urging religious and traditional leaders to work together to strengthen peace efforts.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described insecurity as a major threat to Nigeria’s coexistence, calling for deeper cooperation between government and faith-based organisations.
He said religious institutions have the reach and credibility needed to support peace building across communities.
NIREC Executive Secretary, Rev. Fr. Cornelius Omonokhua, stressed the need for coordinated action against terrorism and banditry, saying every Nigerian life must be protected.
He called for national unity, behavioural change, and renewed commitment to shared values.
