Politics of stopgap spending

In a nation as diverse as Nigeria, where faith often intersects with politics and daily life, questions about the spread of extremist ideologies demand urgent attention. The notion of a “Quran Atlantic” evokes fears of radical Islamic influence expanding beyond borders, potentially fueling jihadist agendas aimed at dominating non-believers. This concern stems from ongoing violence that many see as part of a broader strategy to impose strict interpretations of religious law on secular societies. In Nigeria, the integration of Sharia law into the constitution since 1999 has sparked debates about fairness and equality. While intended to govern personal matters in northern states, its application often appears selective, targeting the vulnerable while sparing the powerful. Residents in these areas complain that poor individuals face harsh punishments for minor offenses, such as theft or adultery, leading to amputations or...