By Abigail Philip David
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on the Senate to amend sections of the proposed tax reform bills that conflict with Sharia law, particularly those related to marriage and inheritance.
In a memorandum submitted to the Senate Committee on Finance on Tuesday, the NSCIA also recommended replacing the term “ecclesiastical” with “religious” in the bills, arguing that the current wording might exclude certain faith groups.
The council stated, “As the representative body for all Muslims in Nigeria, the NSCIA urges that all technical, political, and socio-economic concerns raised by different groups be addressed equitably to ensure broad acceptance.”
It further emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution recognizes a Sharia Court of Appeal to oversee Muslim personal laws, including marriage and inheritance. Therefore, any provisions in the bills that undermine Sharia law would be unconstitutional and should be removed.
Additionally, the council urged lawmakers to consider its recommendations before passing the tax reform bills, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to the legislative process.
The Senate recently held a two-day public hearing on the proposed tax reforms, bringing together key economic and financial stakeholders.
Senator Sani Musa, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, assured that the process would be transparent and in the nation’s best interest, aiming to modernize tax laws in line with current economic realities.
The NSCIA, led by its President-General, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, is Nigeria’s highest Islamic body overseeing Muslim affairs nationwide.
