The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has called on the Senate to revise provisions in the proposed tax reform bills that conflict with Sharia law, particularly those related to marriage and inheritance.
In a memorandum submitted to the Senate Committee on Finance on Tuesday, the council also recommended replacing the term “ecclesiastical” with “religious” to ensure inclusivity for all faith groups.
Citing constitutional provisions for a Sharia Court of Appeal to handle Muslim personal laws, the NSCIA argued that any provisions undermining Sharia law would be unconstitutional and should be removed.
The council urged the Senate to adopt its recommendations before passing the bills and commended the opportunity to participate in the legislative process.
The Senate recently held a two-day public hearing on the tax reform bills, engaging key economic and financial stakeholders. Senator Sani Musa, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, assured that the review process would be transparent and guided by national interest.
Led by its President-General, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the NSCIA remains the highest Islamic body in Nigeria, overseeing the affairs of Muslims nationwide.
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