Principles of Islamic polity towardsahl al‐Kitaband religious minorities

This paper examines the principles of Islamic polity towards Ahl al‐Kitab as more and more states of the Federal Republic of Nigeria adopt the shari'ah as a system of judicial practice. Thus, the paper will attempt to demonstrate that in Nigeria, which has been rightly described as Islamo‐Christian,1 For further explanation of that term, see M. O. Opetoye, ‘Building Bridges of Understanding between Islam and Christianity in Nigeria’, an inaugural lecture delivered at the Lagos State University, 20 March 2001, p. 2. the study of Islamic principles and practices relating to non‐Muslim communities is becoming increasingly significant. The paper will examine the principles of religious tolerance, social justice, universalism, as well as state security and defence that characterize Islamic teachings and influence Christian–Muslim relations in Nigeria. The paper will discuss the principles of Islamic polity towards the Ahl al‐Kitab in general and religious minorities in particular. Inferences are then drawn in the conclusion for Muslim politicians at all levels of national life in Nigeria.