The Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’a Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) Nigeria has expressed strong opposition to the ECOWAS Court of Justice’s ruling that mandates the Nigerian government to amend or repeal specific sections of the Kano State Penal Code.
Hikaya Newspaper reports that the court’s decision, issued on April 9, 2025, deemed Sections 210 and 382(b) of the Kano State laws as violations of human rights, a stance that JIBWIS firmly rejects.
Sheikh Dr. Abdullahi Bala Lau, the National Chairman of JIBWIS, articulated the organization’s concerns, asserting that the ruling represents an unwarranted interference in Nigeria’s legislative authority. He emphasized that the judgment undermines the sanctity of Islam, particularly in Kano State, where the vast majority of the population identifies as Muslim. JIBWIS argues that the ECOWAS Court’s decision disregards the cultural and religious context of the region.
In the press release, JIBWIS highlighted the constitutional basis for the Kano State Sharia Law, citing Section 38(1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion. The organization contends that the enactment of Sharia Law in Kano is consistent with the rights of the state legislature to create laws that reflect the beliefs and customs of its citizens. They assert that the law is a legitimate expression of the people’s will and religious identity.
Furthermore, JIBWIS defended Section 382(b) of the Sharia Law, which prescribes severe penalties for insulting the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The organization views this provision as essential for preserving the honor of the Prophet and maintaining peace within the community. They argue that such insults should not be classified as free speech, as they pose a threat to interfaith harmony and societal stability.
The group also emphasized that Islamic Sharia law is implemented with the consent of the people, aligning with democratic principles and constitutional rights. JIBWIS warned that any attempts to amend or repeal these laws would infringe upon the religious freedoms of the citizens of Kano State. They called for respect for religious diversity and the sovereignty of religious communities, asserting that the ECOWAS ruling could incite unrest and undermine the existing legal framework.
JIBWIS also urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to reject the ECOWAS Court’s ruling and safeguard the religious and constitutional rights of the people in Kano State and other Muslim-majority regions. Sheikh Abdullahi Bala Lau reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to defending their faith and laws, vowing to resist any efforts that threaten their dignity as Muslims in Nigeria.