Nigerian House of Representatives Rejects Bill to Expand Sharia Law

A proposed constitutional amendment to broaden the scope of Sharia law in Nigeria has been defeated in the House of Representatives.

The bill, sponsored by Aliyu Missau, sought to remove the word “personal” from the constitution’s references to Sharia law, effectively expanding its application beyond personal matters.

Supporters argued the change would facilitate operations of Islamic financial institutions, such as Jaiz and Taj banks. However, opponents, including lawmakers Bamidele Salam and Awaji-Inombek Abiante, saw it as a threat to religious freedom and potential divisiveness.

Despite backing from some northern lawmakers, the bill faced fierce opposition and was ultimately rejected in a vote called by Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu.

The decision maintains the current constitutional framework, limiting Sharia law to personal issues like marriage, inheritance, and family disputes.