Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
The Presidential Adviser on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has firmly rejected suggestions by certain United States lawmakers that Nigeria should amend its constitution to abolish Sharia law, stressing that the US has no legal or moral authority to dictate changes to the governance framework of a sovereign nation. Speaking on behalf of the Presidency, Bwala described the recommendations as misplaced and emphasized that Nigeria retains full autonomy over its constitutional and legal matters.
Bwala highlighted that Nigeria’s legal system, which accommodates both secular and religious laws in different states, is a matter of domestic policy and reflective of the country’s cultural and religious diversity. “We are not Venezuela,” he remarked, cautioning against foreign interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs. According to him, international partners can offer guidance or support through diplomatic channels, but they cannot impose legal or constitutional reforms on a democratic nation that has its own processes for lawmaking.
The adviser’s statement comes amid ongoing debate in international circles over the compatibility of Sharia law with human rights standards, particularly in states in northern Nigeria where it governs certain civil and criminal matters. Critics, mostly from abroad, have called for a reevaluation of Sharia provisions, claiming conflicts with global human rights norms. However, Bwala maintained that such discussions must respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and the principles underpinning its federal structure.
From a Stone Reporters perspective, the government’s firm stance reflects a broader assertion of national self-determination, a key theme in recent responses to foreign commentary on internal governance issues. While engagement with international partners is crucial for trade, security, and development, Nigeria continues to draw a clear line on constitutional sovereignty, particularly in matters with profound cultural and religious significance.
A professional observation suggests that this declaration may also serve as a domestic reassurance to citizens who perceive foreign pressure on sensitive issues as an intrusion into the nation’s socio-political and religious fabric. By emphasizing that constitutional amendments must follow Nigeria’s own legislative and judicial procedures, the Presidency reinforces the principle that governance decisions are inherently a matter for Nigerians, through their elected representatives, rather than external actors.
The matter also underscores the delicate balance Nigeria maintains between international relations and domestic autonomy, particularly on legal and religious questions. For now, Bwala’s remarks signal that while dialogue with international partners will continue, any proposals for constitutional reform must originate within Nigeria, preserving the nation’s sovereignty and legislative integrity.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments