Our Laws, Our Faith!’ – Kano Govt Defies ECOWAS Court On Blasphemy Judgement

The Kano State Government has firmly defended its blasphemy laws in the wake of a ruling by the ECOWAS Court of Justice, which found certain provisions of the laws to be at odds with international human rights standards.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In response, the state government emphasized its constitutional authority to preserve religious values within its jurisdiction, fueling ongoing debate on the balance between religious law and human rights. Speaking to Punch, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, stated that Kano would not bow to external pressure and remains committed to upholding the religious and moral principles of its people.

“We won’t be swayed by external forces. Our duty is to protect the values and beliefs of our society. While we acknowledge international viewpoints, our laws reflect the will of our people,” Waiya said.

He explained that the state’s position is grounded in Nigeria’s federal structure, which empowers states to enact laws that align with their unique social, cultural, and religious identities.

“Kano’s stance is fully supported by the federal system of governance, which allows states to tailor laws to their local realities,” he added.

Waiya further noted that the people of Kano expect their leaders to safeguard public order and uphold religious values, insisting that the blasphemy laws play a vital role in fulfilling that mandate.

“Our people have entrusted us with the responsibility to ensure peace and uphold their religious principles. These laws are integral to that obligation and will remain in effect,” he affirmed.

While acknowledging the ECOWAS Court’s concerns about human rights compatibility, Waiya reiterated Kano’s commitment to preserving the religious sanctity and moral framework of the state.

“We respect the court’s jurisdiction, but the governance of Kano must reflect the deeply rooted religious and moral fabric of its population,” he concluded.

The government maintained that its blasphemy laws are consistent with Nigeria’s tradition of legal pluralism, where various legal systems coexist to represent the country’s diverse population.