By Rita Chioma
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Following the Nigerian Senate’s proposal for gender equality in inheritance matters, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Abubakar, has called on them not to  consider the bill, stating that it has religious implications.

The sultan said this while speaking at the closing ceremony of the 20th Zamfara State annual Qur’anic recitation competition.

According to him, the bill is unacceptable to Muslims because it is against Islamic teachings.
“Our religion is our total way of life; therefore, we will not accept any move to change what Allah permitted us to do… Islam is a peaceful religion; we have been living peacefully with Christians and followers of other religions in this country. Therefore, we should be allowed to perform our religion effectively.” He said.

The bill proposes that widows should have custody of their children, except if it is contrary to their welfare. The bill also seeks for widows to be allowed to inherit a fair share their husband’s property, be allowed to live in their matrimonial home and also remarry any man of their choice.

It is also seeking equal rights for male and female children in the sharing of inherited family wealth and properties

Meanwhile, some Nigerians are not happy with his statement. They expressed outrage over his proclamation, stating that Nigeria is not a Sharia country and as such our constitution should not be guided by the Quran.

The Senate rejected the Bill after second reading in March this year, but it has been reintroduced and has passed second reading. It was sponsored by Senator Biodun Christine Olujimi from Ekiti South Senatorial District.