Nigerian judiciary should be put in a better stead to entrench enduring democracy in the country, a former Grand Khadi of the Sharia Court of Appeal, Ilorin, Justice Idris Haroon has said.

He also called for proper utilisation of the judiciary on issues that often create tension in the country.

Justice Haroon spoke in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital at the Ramadan lecture organized by Ma'assalam Islamic Society.

The lecture is entitled: Democracy and good governance: An Islamic perspective.

Haroon noted submitted that, "the judiciary as a major arm of government should be properly tested and used to decide on issues that often create tension in Nigeria; this is one of the advantages of democracy.

"Politics of bitterness, brutality and barbarism must be avoided; endemic corruption and fraud must be shunned. We must come together to build this country and protect its sovereignty and integrity irrespective of religion and tribe.

"The right to seek justice must be shifted from individuals to the central community and we must look beyond ethno-religious associations and affiliations that would make it difficult for tribalism and nepotism to thrive.

"Religion cannot be a barrier to harmonious and peaceful co-existence in a multi-cultural and multi-religious community such as ours. After all the independence of this country was painstakingly earned through the strive and struggle of our forefathers irrespective of their religious inclinations or backgrounds. We must all work together to restore honour and dignity to this nation."

He urged Nigerians politicians not turn acquisition of elective offices to a do or die thing, adding that "the Holy Qu'ran explicitly mentions that it is Allah who entrusts the position of authority to whomsoever He wishes and as well dethrones whomsoever he pleases. This implies that the person in leadership is accountable to him. Islam frowns at imposition of a leader on a community through rigging of an election and other forms of malpractices. The prophet further explains that whoever forces his way to leadership will not succeed in his administration, as he will not be divinely assisted."