The Kano State Government has firmly rejected a recent ruling by the ECOWAS Court of Justice, which declared certain provisions of its blasphemy laws as violations of human rights.
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In a statement released on Sunday, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Garba Waiya, criticized the ECOWAS court’s authority, insisting it has no power to override Nigeria’s constitution. Waiya said the ruling undermines the federal system of governance in Nigeria, where states are permitted to make laws that reflect their cultural, religious, and moral standards.
The ECOWAS Court, in its April 9 judgment, held that parts of the Kano State Sharia Penal Code Law and the Kano State Penal Code conflict with regional and international standards that protect freedom of expression.
The court directed the Nigerian federal government to either repeal or amend the disputed laws in order to align them with Article 9(2) of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which guarantees the right to receive and share information and ideas.
In response, the Kano State Government defended its legal stance by pointing to constitutional provisions that allow state governments to enact laws in line with the values of their people. It maintained that the Sharia Penal Code, introduced in 2000, was developed through proper legislative processes and enjoys widespread public support.
While affirming its respect for human rights and the rule of law, the Kano government stressed the importance of safeguarding the moral and religious foundation of its society.
It warned against foreign influence that could disrupt the beliefs and values deeply held by its residents, adding that a careful balance must be struck between international obligations and local realities.
