There are also other bodies headed by Christian and Muslim religious leaders who are helping to keep the peace and give direction on all matters affecting religion, and this has greatly assisted Nigeria in her development and growth as a nation. It is necessary to mention this because the office of the Archbishop of Canterbury cuts across 38 Provinces in many continents. His statements and views on issues may be taken as authoritative in some countries even when they may not be seen as such in England.

Conditions vary in different countries. For example, for the last 27 years, since the introduction of Shari'a in Sudan, non-Muslims, and particularly Christians, have not had an easy life. Since 1980 in Nigeria, non-Muslims and the Christian Church have suffered different kinds of hardships in various parts of the North.

In a State such as Plateau State, Muslims may not be in the majority, but during the last few years religious crises have threatened to engulf the entire State and to draw it backwards. This brief reminder is necessary for the public to understand that it is no small thing for an Archbishop to be said to be in support of the recognition of the Islamic legal system in Britain.

The bulk of the Archbishop of Canterbury's lecture and presentation may not be read by the majority of people, but that the summary of his paper is in any sense in favour of Islamic law is a matter of serious concern. Until now, no Christian religious leader has spoken in favour of Islamic law, but Christians in many different countries and continents have known persecution and suffering.

If Islamic law is now seen as having the support of the Archbishop of Canterbury in any way at all, the impact that this may have in Muslim dominated parts of the world can only be imagined.

Archbishop Benjamin Kwashi
Diocese of Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria