Clerics call for harmony

Christian and Muslim leaders say the implementation of Sharia anywhere in Nigeria should not violate the freedom and the legitimate interests of non-Muslims as guaranteed by the constitution, ‘The Guardian’ newspaper reported on Wednesday. The recommendation came at the end of a recent two-day seminar on Sharia by the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC). NIREC noted in a communique that Muslims have the right to practise Sharia in accordance with the demands of their religion and within the provisions of the Constitution. However, it said it also appreciated fears by non-Muslims on the application of Islamic law, especially its provisions on apostasy and capital punishment. NIREC said although the practice of Sharia remained the right to every Muslim, it should not be extended to non-Muslims, ‘The Guardian’ reported.