Religious leaders have clashed over the proposed inauguration of Shari’a arbitration panels across six South-West states—Ogun, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Oyo, and Lagos by the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs.
According to Punch, while proponents of the panels insist on its inauguration in the region, critics have argued against it saying that it would disrupt societal harmony.
Dr. Hammed Bakare, President of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Ekiti State, and Dr. Rafiu Bello, Chairman of the Shari’a Committee of Oyoland, confirmed the panels’ establishment, emphasising their focus on resolving disputes among willing Muslims based on Islamic principles.
The initiative, however, has faced opposition. The Ekiti State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dayo Apata (SAN), declared that the panels lacked legal recognition under the state’s judicial framework, which already accommodates customary courts for resolving issues across various religious and traditional practices.
Similarly, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, called for the dissolution of the panel to maintain peace.
Despite opposition, the panel held its first session last week at the Ekiti Central Mosque, Ado Ekiti, with three Khadis presiding.
Meanwhile, plans to inaugurate a similar panel in Oyo town were postponed indefinitely after pushback from local leaders and the government.
Defending the Arbitration Panels, Bakare argued that the panels are voluntary and aligned with Islamic worship practices.
“This is not a court but an arbitration panel for Muslims willing to resolve issues in accordance with the Quran. The constitution guarantees our right to worship and practice our faith,” he said, dismissing allegations that the panels pose a threat to society.
Similarly, Bello stated that the Oyo panel’s inauguration would proceed, clarifying misconceptions about its role.
He said, “The panel is designed to handle issues like inheritance disputes, marital conflicts, and disagreements among friends based on Islamic principles. It is voluntary and poses no harm to the community.”
Both leaders emphasised that similar panels have existed in Lagos, parts of Oyo, and Ekiti, supported by the Supreme Council for Shari’a in Nigeria.
They dismissed fears of political or ethnic agendas, reiterating the panel’s focus on promoting peace and resolving conflicts within the Muslim community.
Critics, including state officials and traditional rulers, maintain that the arbitration panels could undermine existing legal frameworks and societal harmony.
Apata highlighted that Ekiti State’s legal structure sufficiently addresses disputes across all religions without bias, making the Shari’a panels unnecessary.
The Ewi of Ado Ekiti urged Muslim leaders to prioritise peaceful coexistence, stating, “Law and order must prevail for the sake of our community.”
While the debate continues, proponents of the panels remain resolute, insisting they are acting within their constitutional rights.
The controversy underscores the delicate balance between religious freedom and societal cohesion in Nigeria’s pluralistic society.
