On Misconceptions about the Application of the Shari’ah in Nigeria
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Date
2015
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Publisher
2nd International Conference on Arabic Studies and Islamic Civilization, iCASiC2015
Abstract
The “reintroduction” of the Shariʽah Penal Code in some northern states of Nigeria has continued to generate mixed reactions from different angles of the Nigerian society. This paper attempts to explore the various arguments which are usually canvassed by opponents and proponents of the application of the Islamic Law in the country, in order to unveil some of the factors responsible for the misconceptions associated with the said issue. It reviews the philosophy and fundamental principles of the Islamic Law, it also examines the status of non-Muslims under the system and the operability of such a body of law in the Muslim life despite the multi-religious nature of the Nigerian society. Observation, Interaction and interview with some stakeholders in the affected states formed the basis of the methodology adopted in the paper, which in turn intimated the author with some vital information about the whole scenario. It became evident that, there were lapses and errors committed by various stakeholders and organs of government as well as some members of the public, due to misinformation, misapplication and misinterpretation in the course of the “reintroduction”, that inevitably provoked stiff opposition. The paper offers suggestions on how such sensitive issue can be handled, so as to pave way for better understanding among the various sections of the multi-religious Nigeria for peaceful co-existence.
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