Former member of the House of Representatives, Aminu Danmaliki, has attributed growing mob actions based on blasphemy to the failure of the government to prosecute perpetrators, insisting that Shariah Law does not encourage the killing of innocent people.

He stressed that the law does not apply to non-Muslims, adding that it is the right of Muslims, saying calling for its abolition would amount to “weaponising religious freedom.”

In a chat yesterday in Bauchi while reacting to a move by the U.S. Congress calling for the abrogation of Shariah Law in Nigeria, the ex-lawmaker noted: “Labelling Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern under the U.S. International Religious Freedom Act while pressuring the country to dismantle its religious legal systems is laughable.”

He emphasised that genuine protection of lives should focus on security reform, counter-terror financing, border control cooperation, intelligence sharing, and addressing transnational arms trafficking, rather than constitutional tampering.

Danmaliki argued that framing Nigeria’s crisis as a Christian-Muslim war deepens sectarian suspicion, strengthens extremist propaganda, and undermines peace-building efforts.

He stated that Nigeria’s sovereignty is non-negotiable, and Sharia Law, which is constitutionally protected, would be defended by Muslims.

He urged the U.S. to assist Nigeria with balance, humility, and respect for sovereignty, rather than using crusading language that inflames tensions.

Danmaliki decried the misconception about Sharia Law, citing Deborah’s killing by a mob in Sokoto as a case in point, saying the perpetrators, not Shariah Law, were responsible for the victim’s death.

He accused the government of not taking appropriate action to serve as a deterrent to others.

The former legislator urged Nigerians to reevaluate their relationships and interactions, suggesting a redesign of the current approach to inter-community and inter-state relations.

The politician acknowledged Shariah Law, highlighting its 1,400-year history and successful implementation in Nigeria, even before the English common law.