Tensions are rising between Christian and Muslim leaders in South-Western Nigeria over the proposed establishment of Shari’a arbitration panels by the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs.
The panels are intended to adjudicate matters within the Muslim community across Ogun, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Oyo, and Lagos states. Proponents of the initiative have insisted on moving forward despite opposition from government officials and other community leaders.
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, have reaffirmed their commitment to the initiative.
They stressed that the arbitration panels are designed to resolve issues exclusively among the Muslim Ummah. Despite suspending the January 11 inauguration in Oyo due to opposition, the panels have already commenced operations, holding a maiden sitting at the Ekiti Central Mosque in Ado Ekiti with three Khadis presiding.
However, the establishment of the panels has drawn criticism. Ekiti State’s Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Dayo Apata (SAN), stated that the state’s legal framework does not recognize Shari’a courts or arbitration panels. Apata pointed out that existing legal institutions, such as the Customary Courts and High Courts, adequately address issues related to Islamic, Christian, and traditional marriages and inheritance without conflict.
Traditional leaders have also weighed in on the controversy. The Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, ordered the dissolution of the Shari’a panel in the interest of peace and community harmony.
