Kano Government Rejects ECOWAS Court Ruling on Blasphemy Laws, Cites Constitutional Right to Uphold Religious Values and Public Order
The Kano State Government has stood its ground in defense of its blasphemy laws, dismissing a recent verdict by the ECOWAS Court of Justice that declared aspects of the laws inconsistent with international human rights standards.
In a statement release to our correspondent, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, asserted that Kano has the constitutional authority to preserve religious sanctity within its borders.
“We will not be deterred by external pressures,” Waiya said. “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.”
He emphasized that Kano’s stance is backed by Nigeria’s federal structure, which allows states to make laws reflecting their unique social, moral, and religious contexts. Waiya said the state’s predominantly Muslim population expects the government to maintain peace and protect their religious values, describing the blasphemy laws as central to that mission.
While acknowledging the ECOWAS Court’s authority, Waiya reaffirmed Kano’s commitment to preserving public order and religious sanctity. “The laws that govern our state must reflect the unique moral and religious fabric of our people,” he stated.
The state government maintains that its blasphemy laws are in line with Nigeria’s legal pluralism, where state legislatures are empowered to enact laws on matters within the Concurrent Legislative List, including criminal law.
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