Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad has kicked against plans by US Senator Ted Cruz for his country to go against those supporting Sharia Law in Nigeria.

Cruz had announced new legislative efforts aimed at countering the enforcement of blasphemy and sharia laws in Nigeria.

The development comes after President Donald Trump’s designation of the country as one of particular concern over religious freedom violations.

Cruz said, “I am deeply gratified to President Trump for making this determination. I have fought for years to counter the slaughter and persecution of Christians in Nigeria, and this year introduced legislation that will lock in the designation made today.

“Today’s designation is a critical step in holding accountable and changing the behaviour of Nigerian officials who have facilitated and created an environment conducive to the outrages in Nigeria. My legislation implements additional steps, including targeting those who implement blasphemy and sharia laws in Nigeria, and I am committed to working with the administration and my colleagues to advance my bill and implement these necessary measures. Today’s decision by President Trump is a great one, and I thank him for his strong leadership.”

Reacting, Ahmad, who served under the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, slammed Cruz, saying he can't dictate to Nigeria.

He wrote on X, "So a U.S. senator is now proudly declaring they will target those who helped implement Sharia law in Nigeria, as if practising or supporting Sharia is a crime. You are free to oppose Sharia in your own country, but you have no jurisdiction to dictate the laws of ours. We will defend our sovereignty and our right to determine our own legal and affairs."

ASA