Muslim cleric opposes pardon, reintegration of criminals

An Islamic cleric has strongly opposed the practice of pardoning and reintegrating convicted criminals into society, asserting that such actions are incompatible with Islamic principles. Dr. Abdulateef Abdulhakeem delivered his remarks on Saturday during the 20th anniversary celebration of the Osun State Independent Shari’ah Panel in Osogbo.

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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.

Abdulhakeem contended that the implementation of Shari'ah is fundamentally about establishing justice and accountability. He suggested that reluctance among some state governments to establish Shari'ah courts stems from a desire to maintain discretionary powers often exercised by political officeholders. According to him, Shari'ah does not sanction the release or reintegration of convicted individuals based on political connections or executive whim.

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

"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," Abdulhakeem stated. He added that many Nigerians are hesitant about Shari'ah because they perceive it as not supporting mercy for criminals or their societal reintegration.

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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.

The cleric called upon governments at all levels to adhere to constitutional provisions, specifically Section 275, which allows for Shari'ah courts. He emphasized that Muslims are not requesting anything beyond what the constitution already guarantees. Abdulhakeem further explained that Shari'ah courts serve to regulate the conduct of Muslims and ensure adherence to Islamic principles, addressing criminal tendencies within the faith in line with the Quran, which prohibits unlawful killing and terrorism.

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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.