No Going Back On Blasphemy Laws, Kano Tells ECOWAS Court

The Kano State Government has defended its blasphemy laws against a verdict by the ECOWAS Court of Justice, asserting the constitutional right to uphold religious sanctity within its jurisdiction.

The ECOWAS court’s judgment, which declared certain aspects of the blasphemy laws inconsistent with international human rights standards, has sparked a fierce debate.

In a statement shared with Sunday PUNCH the state Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, said Kano remained unyielding, citing its legal authority to protect the values and beliefs of its predominantly Muslim population.

He said, “We will not be deterred by external pressures. 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.

“The Kano government’s defencee is rooted in Nigeria’s federal system, where states retain the right to enact laws reflecting local social, moral, and religious contexts.

“The people of Kano have entrusted us with the responsibility to maintain peace and protect their religious values. These laws are central to that mission, and they will remain firmly in place.”

While acknowledging the ECOWAS Court’s judgment, Waiya reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to the protection of religious sanctity and public order.

“We fully respect the court’s authority, but the laws that govern our state must reflect the unique moral and religious fabric of our people,” said Waiya.

The state argues that its blasphemy laws are not an aberration but a recognition of Nigeria’s legal pluralism — where state legislatures are empowered to legislate on matters within the Concurrent Legislative List, including criminal law