In an interview on Symfoni TV, President of the Middle Belt Forum, Dr. Pogu Bitrus, delivered a blunt assessment of the ongoing debate over Sharia law and its implications for communities across northern Nigeria, insisting that its impact goes beyond adherents of Islam.
According to Bitrus, “Anybody who tells you that Sharia only applies to Muslims is a liar,” the Middle Belt leader argued that in practice, the implementation of Sharia in some states affects the broader society, including non-Muslims.
He maintained that while proponents often insist it is limited to Muslims, certain policies and enforcement patterns create social and legal pressures that extend to other residents.
Dr. Bitrus cited examples of local enforcement actions, claiming that some community-level decisions have been influenced by religious legal codes even in areas with mixed populations. According to him, this raises constitutional questions about fairness, equality, and the secular status of the Nigerian state.
He reiterated his long-standing position that the 1999 Constitution contains numerous references to Sharia and Islamic institutions, which he believes tilts the system away from neutrality. He argued that the imbalance fuels suspicion among minority groups, particularly in the Middle Belt, and deepens existing tensions.
The forum president also emphasized that his organization is not anti-Muslim, noting that it comprises both Christians and Muslims who share common historical experiences.
He said the core demand of the Middle Belt movement remains equal citizenship, protection of indigenous identities, and governance structures that reflect the will of the people.
Dr. Bitrus concluded by urging lawmakers and civil society actors to engage in honest dialogue about constitutional reforms, warning that unresolved grievances could continue to undermine national cohesion if not carefully addressed.
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