Muslim cleric opposes pardons and criminal reintegration.

By Shina Abubakar, Osogbo

Dr. Abdulateef Abdulhakeem, an Islamic cleric, criticized the practice of pardoning and reintegrating convicted criminals, arguing that it conflicts with Islamic principles.

He made the remarks on Saturday while lecturing at the 20th anniversary of the Osun State Independent Shari’ah Panel in Osogbo.

Abdulhakeem contended that implementing Shari’ah promotes justice and accountability, and that some state governments hesitate to establish Shari’ah courts because doing so would curtail certain discretionary powers held by political officials.

According to him, Shari’ah does not endorse the release or reintegration of convicted criminals based on political influence or executive discretion.

“Shari’ah is meant to establish justice. Islam does not support what I describe as a ‘prerogative of injustice,’ whereby a killer is released because of closeness to those in authority.”

“Nigerians do not want Shari’ah because it does not support mercy for criminals or their reintegration into society,” he added.

The cleric urged governments at all levels to uphold the Constitution and allow Muslims to exercise their constitutional right to Shari’ah courts under Section 275.

“In Islam, we are not asking for anything beyond what the Constitution already provides. Section 275 makes provision for Shari’ah courts, and any state that desires one should establish it. Even if there is only one Muslim in a state, that person’s rights, including freedom of religion, association and personal liberty, must be protected through the establishment of the appropriate institution,” he said.

Abdulhakeem maintained that the primary role of Shari’ah courts is to regulate the conduct of Muslims and ensure adherence to Islamic principles.

“If there is a Shari’ah court, it will regulate the excesses of Muslims. Government can empower it to address criminal tendencies among those who profess the Islamic faith because no religion permits the unlawful killing of others.”

“In the name of Islam, you cannot kill or engage in terrorism because such acts are prohibited by the Qur’an.”

“These forms of inhumanity continue partly because the government has not formally established institutions to regulate members of the faith in line with constitutional provisions.”

“The Shari’ah court is meant to check the excesses of Muslims. It is not compulsory for Christians. The conventional courts remain available to everyone, while the Shari’ah court serves Muslims in matters within its jurisdiction,” he added.

Earlier, Alhaji Mustafa Olawuyi, President of the Osun State Muslim Community, praised individuals who have contributed to the growth and activities of the Osun State Independent Shari’ah Panel since its establishment.