By Kolawole Ojebisi
The Kano State Government has vowed not to amend or repeal its blasphemy laws as ordered by the ECOWAS Court of Justice, stressing that they’re a reflection of the natives’ will.
The state added it “will not be deterred by external pressures” adding that its blasphemy laws align with the constitutional right to uphold religious sanctity within its jurisdiction.
This is contained in a statement shared with Sunday PUNCH by Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya.
Waiya maintained that Kano remained unyielding, citing its legal authority to protect the values and beliefs of its predominantly Muslim population.
He said, “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.”
While acknowledging the ECOWAS Court’s judgment, Waiya reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to the protection of religious sanctity and public order.
“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.
The state argues that its blasphemy laws are not an aberration but a recognition of Nigeria’s legal pluralism — where state legislatures are empowered to legislate on matters within the Concurrent Legislative List, including criminal law.
The New Diplomat had reported how ECOWAS court declared certain aspects of the blasphemy laws inconsistent with international human rights standards,
The court directed the Nigerian government to amend or repeal sections of the laws that violate human rights.
The ECOWAS Court’s verdict has sparked a fierce debate among social commentators in Nigeria.
