Nigerian Stories has announced on its official X handle that Aliyu Bappa Misau, a prominent House of Representatives member, has introduced a bill aimed at expanding the scope of Islamic law within Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended). The proposed legislation, sponsored by Misau—a People’s Democratic Party (PDP) representative from Bauchi State—seeks to broaden the application of Islamic law beyond personal and family matters to include civil domains such as contracts, corporate regulations, and international disputes.
This move marks a bold step in Misau’s legislative agenda and could reshape the intersection of law and religious practice in Nigeria. According to Misau, the proposed expansion will allow those who choose to be governed by Islamic legal principles in these additional areas to do so with clear constitutional backing, particularly in cases involving civil transactions and business agreements.
If passed, the bill could ignite significant debate on religious and legal frameworks in Nigeria, raising questions on the role of Islamic law within the federal system and its potential impact on Nigeria’s secular foundations. Misau, however, has expressed confidence that the bill will garner the necessary support in the House, citing the need to reflect the preferences of a significant portion of Nigeria’s diverse population.
This ambitious proposal is expected to generate considerable interest and stir discussions across the nation, as it touches on sensitive matters of faith, civil liberties, and the constitution’s role in a multicultural society. With Nigeria’s legal landscape poised for potential change, the outcome of Misau’s legislative push will undoubtedly be closely watched by citizens, legal experts, and international observers alike.