By: Joy Musa
The Kano State Government has publicly rejected a recent ruling by the ECOWAS Court of Justice that declared parts of its blasphemy laws as violations of international human rights standards. In a firm response, the state government defended its legal provisions, asserting that they are both constitutional and reflective of the moral and religious values of its predominantly Muslim population.
ECOWAS Court Decision
The ECOWAS Court had ruled that Section 210 of the Kano State Penal Code and Section 382(b) of the Kano State Sharia Penal Code Law infringe upon the right to freedom of expression, as protected by international human rights instruments to which Nigeria is a party. The court emphasized that laws criminalizing blasphemy disproportionately restrict freedom of opinion and expression.
Kano State’s Response
In a strongly worded statement, the Kano State Government maintained that its laws are grounded in Nigeria’s federal structure, which allows individual states to enact legislation suited to their sociocultural and religious context. Citing Section 4(7) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, the government affirmed that its House of Assembly has the authority to legislate on criminal matters within the Concurrent Legislative List.
“The values and beliefs of our people are central to our governance,” the statement read. “Our laws are not only constitutional but are also aligned with the collective will of our citizens who expect their government to uphold moral and religious principles.”
Limits of Free Expression
The Kano Government also pointed out that the right to freedom of expression is not absolute, referencing international legal standards and rulings by the European Court of Human Rights that allow for certain restrictions in the interest of public order, morality, and the protection of the rights of others.
“Our laws seek to balance fundamental freedoms with the need to maintain religious harmony and public peace. We are committed to ensuring that these laws are applied fairly and are never used to justify mob action or personal vendettas,” the government stated.
Steps Toward Safeguards and Harmony
In light of ongoing concerns, the government announced new measures to prevent abuse of blasphemy laws, including enhanced judicial training and the expansion of interfaith dialogue platforms aimed at fostering understanding and coexistence.
The state reiterated its commitment to the rule of law and due process, noting that recent reforms are designed to strengthen legal safeguards and ensure that justice is both fair and transparent.
As the debate continues to spark conversations about the intersection of religious values and international human rights obligations, Kano’s stance underscores the challenges Nigeria faces as it navigates its federal structure, diverse population, and constitutional guarantees.
