Tension has risen between Christian and Muslim leaders over plans to establish Sharia arbitration panels across the southwestern states of Nigeria. These panels, proposed by the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, aim to resolve disputes among Muslims in Ogun, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Oyo, and Lagos states.
While supporters argue that the panels are constitutional and voluntary, opposition from government officials, traditional leaders, and Christian groups has grown louder.
The controversy began with the suspension of the panel’s inauguration in Oyo State earlier this month due to resistance from various quarters. Despite this, the first sitting of the panel took place last week at Ekiti Central Mosque, Ado Ekiti, with three Khadis presiding.
Islamic leaders, including Dr. Hammed Bakare of Ekiti State and Dr. Rafiu Bello of Oyo, have stated firmly that the panels are lawful and essential for Muslims who wish to resolve disputes in line with Islamic principles.
Dr. Bakare explained, “The panel is an arbitration for Muslims and not compulsory for anyone. It is part of our worship and does not violate any law.” He stressed that the panels do not function as courts but as bodies to mediate disputes voluntarily submitted by Muslims. “Nobody is being forced to use it,” he added.
However, the Ekiti State government and traditional rulers have taken a strong stance against the initiative. Ekiti State Attorney General Dayo Apata stated that the current legal framework does not support the existence of Sharia arbitration panels. Similarly, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, dissolved the panel in the state, citing the need to preserve peace and order.
In contrast, proponents argue that similar panels have existed in other southwestern states for years without issues. Dr. Bello noted, “These panels already operate in places like Lagos and Ogbomoso. The controversy in Oyo is due to misconceptions.”
The pushback has also come from Christian leaders, who argue that the panels are unnecessary and could upset the region’s harmony. Pastor Joshua Opayinka of Ondo’s Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria questioned the feasibility of Sharia panels in states where Muslims are a minority, saying, “Can we have full Christian worship activities in the north? No. So why push for Sharia courts here?”
Afenifere, a Yoruba socio-political group, also opposed the panels, asserting that religious laws are not aligned with the region’s focus on development. “Religion should not divide us. Our focus should be on progress, not religious bigotry,” said Abagun Kole Omololu, the group’s Organizing Secretary.
While discussions continue, Muslim leaders have expressed their intent to proceed. Mallam AbulGaniy Ezra of Osun State emphasized that Sharia arbitration has existed in Osun for nearly 20 years and is strictly for voluntary cases. “This is about ensuring peace among willing Muslims,” he said.
