Sharia Is Not Universal” – Sultan Stresses Rights Of Christians In Nigeria

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, has stated that Christians should not be subjected to Sharia law, stressing that Islamic law is exclusively for Muslims.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

He made the remarks on Wednesday at the opening of the 2025 triennial meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) in Abuja, themed “Collaboration of Inter-Religious Council with Government to Promote Peace in Nigeria.”

The Sultan emphasized that Nigeria is a multi-religious nation, not a secular state, and that the government does not favor either Islam or Christianity as a state religion. Instead, he said, the state supports both major religions equally.

Abubakar further clarified that Sharia law will never be applied to non-Muslims and advised that Christians should not be compelled to dress or pray like Muslims. He reiterated that Sharia is strictly applicable to Muslims, highlighting Nigeria’s pluralistic religious character.

Addressing recent calls for the abolition of Sharia, the Sultan noted that the country allows the practice of all religions freely and warned against misrepresenting Nigeria’s religious freedom.

NIREC-Government Partnership Crucial for Peace — Speaker Abbas
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, called for enhanced collaboration between NIREC and the federal government to strengthen peace-building initiatives and tackle rising insecurity.

He highlighted that extremists often exploit religious sentiments to undermine national unity, stating:
“This gathering is symbolic, coming at a time when violent extremists are sowing discord. It underscores the need for synergy between NIREC and the government. We must challenge stereotypes and counter false narratives about inter-religious relations.”

Abbas assured legislative support for actionable peace strategies proposed during the meeting.

Nigeria’s Unity Non-Negotiable — SGF Akume
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, acknowledged Nigeria’s security challenges, which are worsened by political rhetoric and eroded trust.

He cautioned against external pressure and false narratives about the country’s security situation, declaring:
“Our independence and sovereignty are non-negotiable. We cannot allow terror or division to sink the ship of state.”

Akume called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, and community figures to unite and promote peace through strategic collaboration.

Faith Institutions Key to Peace — CAN President
Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), emphasized that insecurity poses a serious threat to national cohesion.

He noted that faith-based organizations remain among the most trusted institutions in Nigeria and should be leveraged for peace-building:
“Faith institutions have immense potential for strengthening security and sustaining peace.”

Okoh called for closer collaboration between the government and religious bodies such as NIREC to foster dialogue, mobilize communities, and nurture social harmony.

Religious Leaders Must Combat Terrorism — NIREC Secretary
Rev. Fr. Cornelius Omonokhua, Executive Secretary of NIREC, stressed the importance of religious leaders partnering with the government to tackle terrorism and banditry.

He reminded participants that “every human life is precious to God” and urged leaders to work collectively to protect Nigerians. Omonokhua also prayed for divine wisdom for leaders, transformation for criminals, and a national shift toward positive values and mental reorientation.