The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on the Senate to revise sections of the proposed tax reform bills that clash with Sharia law especially those touching on sensitive issues like marriage and inheritance.
In a memorandum submitted to the Senate Committee on Finance on Tuesday, the NSCIA raised concerns about the language and provisions in the bills, saying they risk excluding certain religious groups and contradicting the Nigerian Constitution.
One of the council’s key demands is the removal of any sections that could undermine Islamic personal laws. Citing the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the NSCIA reminded the Senate that Sharia law is recognized and protected, particularly in matters of marriage and inheritance.
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The NSCIA also took issue with the use of the word “ecclesiastical” in parts of the bills, arguing that it creates the impression that only one religious group is considered. The council proposed replacing it with the more inclusive term “religious” to reflect the country’s diversity.
This appeal comes amid the Senate’s ongoing review of the tax reform bills, which have sparked conversations across economic, political, and religious lines. During a two-day public hearing, stakeholders from across sectors gathered to weigh in on the proposed changes, aiming to reshape Nigeria’s tax laws to fit current economic realities.
Senator Sani Musa, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, assured Nigerians that the review process would remain transparent and focused on the national interest.
The NSCIA, led by its President-General, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, emphasized the importance of ensuring that the bills address the concerns of all groups fairly. The council expressed gratitude for the opportunity to present its views and urged the Senate to incorporate its recommendations before passing the bills.
