Nigerian Lawyer Responds to Petition Against Mosque Loud Hailers on the Plateau
Prominent Nigerian lawyer Sirajo Abubakar has publicly criticized a petition filed by John Apollos Maton, questioning the legality of using loud hailers in mosques on the Plateau. Abubakar’s response highlights what he deems as baseless and legally flawed arguments from Maton, who he claims may have overly relied on artificial intelligence for drafting the petition.
In his rejoinder, Abubakar expressed his dismay and embarrassment, noting that Maton, a senior colleague with a decade of legal experience, should have been more diligent in applying legal principles. He described the petition as “iniquitous” and criticized its reliance on erroneous interpretations of constitutional provisions.
Abubakar particularly took issue with Maton’s citation of Sections 37 and 38 of the Constitution of Nigeria, which address the right to privacy and freedom of religion, respectively. He argued that these sections support the rights of Muslims to practice their religion, including the call to prayer, or azan, which he emphasized is protected under the freedom of religion guarantee.
Referencing a judicial authority, Abubakar underscored the importance of freedom of religious expression. He pointed out that the right to manifest one’s religion is protected, whether privately or in public—contradicting the implications of Maton’s petition.
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Furthermore, he criticized the notion that the use of loud hailers by mosques violates privacy rights, contending that religious expression cannot be construed as an infringement of privacy. He suggested that if any legal action were to be taken, it would be under nuisance laws, which would require substantive legal grounds to establish harm.
Abubakar also highlighted the hypocrisy in Maton’s petition, noting that Christian churches frequently utilize loud hailers without similar scrutiny. He argued that this selectivity betrays underlying prejudice and suggested that any advocacy for noise regulation should apply universally—encompassing both mosques and churches.
He also addressed claims linking mosque loud hailers to violations of the Criminal Code, stressing that such laws do not apply in Northern Nigeria, where the Penal Code prevails. He dismissed Maton’s references to the Terrorism Prevention Act as irrelevant and unfounded.
In his closing remarks, Abubakar invoked the historical and cultural significance of the azan to Islam, asserting that it is an essential expression of faith that fosters unity within the Muslim community. He called for constructive dialogue to resolve disputes rather than inflaming tensions through divisive petitions.
Abubakar concluded by urging legal professionals to balance the benefits of technological advancements with the critical oversight that good legal practice demands. He warned that uncritical reliance on artificial intelligence can lead to misguided legal arguments, as exemplified by the petition he was addressing. He emphasized the need for communal harmony and respect, especially in a diverse society like Nigeria, where understanding and tolerance among various faiths are crucial for coexistence.
By PRNigeria
