Kano parliament postpones debate on Shari'a

Kano State's lawmakers on Wednesday adjourned a debate on the proposed introduction of Shari'a law, which has been arousing increasing opposition from Christian and secular groups in the country.

News reports said the debate, expected to resume in January, was adjourned because of the death of a relative of Alhaji Ado Bayero, the Emir of the ancient city.

A member of the house, who asked not to be named, told reporters that Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso and other officials wanted to "calm things down" after minority Christian leaders in Kano expressed concern at the plans to impose the Shari'a.

The bill was endorsed last week by a joint meeting of Governor Kwankwaso, assembly members, Alhaji Bayero and Islamic leaders, 'The Guardian' said. Its third and final reading had been planned for Tuesday.

In October, Zamfara became the first Nigerian state to introduce the Shari'a. In addition to Kano, two other northern states, Sokoto and Yobe, have also taken steps to introduce Islamic law.