Nothing will change blasphemy law in Kano State – Commissioner
Kano State Government says nothing will change the state’s law on blasphemy which is rooted in Islam and reflects the will of the predominantly Muslim population of the state.
An ECOWAS court’s judgment has declared certain aspects of the blasphemy law inconsistent with international human rights standards.
The state, however, said while the ECOWAS court has is entitled to its views, the state will not succumb to any pressure to abrogate the law.
The state Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, said in a statement that the blasphemy law did not violate any provisions of the law and Constitution of Nigeria.
“We fully respect the court’s authority, but the laws that govern our state must reflect the unique moral and religious fabric of our people,” said Waiya.
He explained that the blasphemy law was not an aberration but a recognition of Nigeria’s legal pluralism, where empowered states to legislate on matters within the Concurrent Legislative List, including criminal law.
He therefore said that Kano State will not be deterred by external pressures to tinker with the law.
“We will not be deterred by external pressures. Our responsibility is to uphold the values of our society, which are grounded in religious and moral beliefs. While we respect international opinions, our laws are a reflection of our people’s will.
“The Kano government’s defence is rooted in Nigeria’s federal system, where states retain the right to enact laws reflecting local social, moral, and religious contexts.
“The people of Kano have entrusted us with the responsibility to maintain peace and protect their religious values. These laws are central to that mission, and they will remain firmly in place.”
