Popular Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi has defended the application of Shariah law in Nigeria as the prerogative of Muslims. He criticized a report by US lawmakers. The Federal Government also rejected claims of religious persecution in the country.
On February 24, 2026, prominent Nigerian Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi responded to a report from US lawmakers by defending the implementation of Shariah law in parts of Nigeria. Gumi stated that the application of Shariah remains the prerogative of Muslims, emphasizing it as an internal matter.
In a separate statement on the same day, the Federal Government of Nigeria rejected the stance of US Congressmen regarding alleged religious persecution. The government maintained its position that no such persecution exists in the country.
Both responses highlight Nigeria's pushback against external critiques of its religious and legal systems. Gumi specifically faulted the US lawmakers' report, while the FG's rejection underscores ongoing diplomatic tensions over human rights perceptions.
