Shari’a Arbitration Panels Stir Debate in South-West Nigeria
Tensions have emerged between Christian and Muslim leaders over plans by the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (SCIA) to inaugurate Shari’a arbitration panels across South-Western Nigeria. The panels, proposed for Ogun, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Oyo, and Lagos states, are intended to resolve disputes among willing members of the Muslim Ummah. However, the initiative has sparked significant opposition, with critics arguing that it undermines existing legal structures and poses a threat to peaceful coexistence in the region.
Background and Objectives of the Panel
Dr. Hammed Bakare, President of SCIA in Ekiti State, and Dr. Rafiu Bello, Chairman of the Shari’a Committee in Oyoland, have strongly defended the initiative, describing it as part of Islamic worship practices. According to Bakare, the arbitration panel is a voluntary mechanism aimed at resolving marital, inheritance, and interpersonal disputes among Muslims based on Islamic principles. He emphasized that participation is not compulsory and that it complements the constitutional right to religious freedom.
“This panel is not a court; it is an arbitration platform strictly for willing Muslims. It’s about promoting peace and resolving issues within the framework of Islamic principles,” Bakare said. He further clarified that similar panels have existed for decades in Lagos and parts of Oyo State without controversy.
Opposition from State Leaders and Traditional Rulers
Despite the SCIA’s assurances, resistance to the panels has been widespread. In Ekiti, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dayo Apata (SAN), rejected the initiative, stating, “The existing legal structure in Ekiti State already addresses issues relating to marriage, inheritance, and other personal matters for all religions through customary and high courts.”
Adding to the opposition, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, ordered the dissolution of the panel in his domain, citing the need for law and order. “This is essential for peaceful coexistence in our community,” he stated during a meeting with local leaders and Islamic clerics.
The proposed panel inauguration in Oyo, scheduled for January 11, was also indefinitely suspended after the state government and traditional leaders raised concerns. Critics argue that introducing Shari’a panels in the predominantly Yoruba Christian-Muslim cultural setting risks unsettling the region’s delicate religious balance.
Cultural and Religious Concerns
Several stakeholders, including Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, have expressed reservations about the panels. Afenifere’s Organizing Secretary, Abagun Kole Omololu, stated, “Importing religious law into Yoruba culture will not be tolerated. Our focus as a region is development, not religious bigotry.”
Christian groups, including the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), have echoed these concerns. Pastor Joshua Opayinka, PFN Chairman in Ondo State, dismissed the idea as unrealistic, saying, “Can Christians establish their full religious systems in the North? Why push for Shari’a courts in the South-West?”
Traditional groups, such as the Yoruba Cultural Renaissance Advocates (YCRA), have also spoken out. The YCRA commended traditional rulers who resisted the panels, describing their actions as preserving secularism and cultural harmony.
Proponents Defend Initiative
Proponents of the panels remain defiant, asserting that their establishment is lawful and beneficial. Dr. Bello explained that the initiative is often misunderstood, with opponents mistakenly labeling it as an attempt to impose Shari’a law. He clarified that the panel operates under constitutional provisions for arbitration and is meant solely for Muslims who voluntarily opt to use it.
“Why is there an issue in Oyo town when similar panels exist peacefully in other parts of the state?” Bello asked. He dismissed concerns about legal conflicts, emphasizing that the panels do not require legislative approval as they operate independently of formal courts.
The SCIA in Osun State similarly defended the initiative, highlighting that such panels have existed since 2005 without controversy. Mallam AbulGaniy Ezra, the Osun State Coordinator, revealed plans to lobby the state government to upgrade the panels to full-fledged Shari’a courts as allowed by the constitution.
Calls for Dialogue
Amid the controversy, voices advocating for dialogue have emerged. The Osun State Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi, urged stakeholders to approach the matter democratically, ensuring decisions do not jeopardize state peace. Similarly, Muslim leaders in Ogun State have announced plans to hold discussions to address the growing tensions.
The National Missioner of Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Sheik Abdulrahman Ahmad, called for restraint and understanding, noting that similar panels have operated successfully in Lagos for over two decades. He described the initiative as a constitutional matter and urged opponents to consider its limited scope.
Looking Ahead
The debate over Shari’a arbitration panels in South-West Nigeria reflects broader concerns about religious coexistence and the balance between cultural traditions and constitutional rights. While proponents assert that the panels promote peace and resolve disputes within the Muslim community, opponents view them as a divisive initiative that could disrupt harmony in a region known for its religious tolerance.
As discussions continue, the issue underscores the need for inclusive dialogue to navigate the complexities of religion, culture, and governance in a pluralistic society.
