Cleric says Islam does not endorse mercy for criminals.

Dr. Abdulateef Abdulhakeem, an Islamic cleric, has criticized the practice of pardoning and reintegrating criminals into society, claiming it contradicts Islamic Sharia.

During the 20th anniversary of the Osun State Independent Shari’ah Panel in Osogbo, Abdulhakeem argued that Sharia is intended to uphold justice and does not endorse granting mercy to criminals because of their connections to those in authority.

“Sharia is to establish justice. Islam does not support the ‘prerogative of injustice’ whereby a killer will be released because of closeness to authority,” he said.

“Nigerians will not want Sharia to stand because it does not support mercy for criminals or reintegration of criminals back into society,” he added.

He urged governments to adhere to Section 275 of the Nigerian Constitution, which allows for the establishment of Sharia Courts, insisting that such courts would help regulate the conduct of Muslims and address criminal tendencies within the faith community.

According to him, Sharia Courts are meant for Muslims and would not affect Christians, as conventional courts remain available to all citizens.

He added that no religion permits violence or terrorism and that proper religious institutions could help curb such excesses.