Complete List Of States Practicing Sharia Law In Nigeria

Sharia law, derived from Islamic principles, is implemented in several states in northern Nigeria. Its adoption, which began in 1999 in Zamfara State, has expanded to 11 other states in the northern region. Sharia law in Nigeria operates alongside the country's secular legal system, and its jurisdiction applies predominantly to Muslims within these states. However, the extent of Sharia law's application varies, with some states implementing it fully while others apply it only to personal matters such as marriage, inheritance, and divorce.

Complete List of States Practicing Sharia Law in Nigeria:

• Zamfara State: The first state to adopt Sharia law in 1999, Zamfara set the precedent for other northern states.

• Kano State: One of the most prominent states practicing Sharia law, Kano is known for its enforcement through Hisbah (Sharia police).

• Katsina State: Another northern state with full Sharia implementation.

• Kebbi State: Practices Sharia in its legal system, focusing on both civil and criminal matters.

• Sokoto State: The seat of the historic Sokoto Caliphate, Sokoto follows Islamic jurisprudence through Sharia law.

• Bauchi State: Implements Sharia law alongside the state’s secular legal framework.

• Borno State: Despite security challenges from insurgency, Borno is a Sharia-practicing state.

• Jigawa State: Implements Sharia law, especially in civil matters related to Muslims.

• Gombe State: One of the states where Sharia applies in specific legal matters.

• Kaduna State: Sharia is implemented partially, with certain areas practicing the law in personal matters.

• Niger State: Another state where Sharia law applies, mainly in the northern regions.

• Yobe State: The application of Sharia law is prominent in civil matters in this state.

Scope of Sharia Law

In these states, Sharia law is typically applied to Muslim residents in areas of personal law, such as family and inheritance matters. However, in some states, criminal law also falls under Sharia jurisdiction, with penalties that can include flogging, amputations, and stoning, though these punishments are rarely implemented. Enforcement is handled by Sharia courts and the Hisbah corps, which serve as Islamic police enforcing religious standards.

Controversies and Criticisms

The implementation of Sharia law in a secular state like Nigeria has been met with mixed reactions. Proponents argue that it provides moral guidance and social justice aligned with Islamic principles. Critics, however, highlight its potential violation of Nigeria's constitutional principles of secularism and human rights. For example, the Hisbah corps in Kano and other states have drawn attention for strict enforcement measures, such as banning mannequins or enforcing modesty rules, which critics say infringe on personal freedoms.

Conclusion

The presence of Sharia law in these states reflects the religious and cultural diversity of Nigeria. It also underscores ongoing debates about how to balance religious practices with the nation's secular framework. For those visiting or residing in these regions, understanding Sharia law's influence on local customs and legal systems is essential.