The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has criticised the United States government over its recent comments regarding the application of Shariah law in northern Nigeria, describing the remarks as intrusive and insensitive to Nigeria’s internal governance structures.
MURIC argued that external governments should avoid making categorical judgments on Nigeria’s religious and constitutional affairs, noting that the country operates under a federal system that allows states certain legal autonomy. The group emphasised that discussions around Shariah implementation remain matters of domestic policy that reflect historical, cultural, and religious realities unique to Nigeria’s northern region.
The organisation urged diplomatic actors to show restraint and to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty, especially on matters with potential to influence public sentiment or distort interfaith relations. Policy analysts have echoed calls for more tactful engagement between Nigeria and its partners to prevent unnecessary tension or misinterpretation.
