Nigeria is a diverse country with a population that practices both Islamic and Christian faiths. In 1999, the return to democratic rule in Nigeria led to the adoption of Sharia law in several northern states, which have Muslim-majority populations.
Sharia law, the religious law derived from the religious precepts of Islam, has been implemented to varying degrees across these states. Here is the list of Sharia states in Nigeria:
Zamfara State was the first state to adopt Sharia law in 1999 under the administration of Governor Ahmad Sani Yerima. The state fully implements Sharia law in its legal system, including criminal justice.
Kano State adopted Sharia law in 2000 under the leadership of Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso. The state has since implemented Sharia law in its courts and legal system.
Kaduna State partially adopted Sharia law in 2000 under the administration of Governor Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi. The implementation was limited to the northern, Muslim-majority part of the state.
Katsina State adopted Sharia law in 2000 under Governor Umaru Musa Yar'Adua's administration. The state fully implements Sharia law in its legal system.
Kebbi State adopted Sharia law in 2000 under Governor Adamu Aliero's administration. The state has since implemented Sharia law in its courts and legal system.
Niger State partially adopted Sharia law in 2000 under Governor Abdulkadir Kure's administration. The implementation was limited to the northern, Muslim-majority part of the state.
Bauchi State adopted Sharia law in 2001 under Governor Ahmed Abdullahi's administration. The state has since implemented Sharia law in its courts and legal system.
Borno State adopted Sharia law in 2000 under Governor Mala Kachalla's administration. The state has since implemented Sharia law in its courts and legal system.
Yobe State adopted Sharia law in 2001 under Governor Bukar Abba Ibrahim's administration. The state has since implemented Sharia law in its courts and legal system.
The implementation of Sharia law in these states has been a controversial and complex issue, with debates surrounding its impact on human rights, religious freedom, and the overall legal system in Nigeria.