Former Minister Adebayo Shittu defends the proposed Sharia arbitration panels in South-West Nigeria, dismissing opposition as ignorance. He argues the panels, meant for civil matters among Muslims, align with constitutional religious freedom. Critics, however, raise concerns over secularism and security risks tied to Sharia implementation in other states.
Former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, has weighed in on the debate surrounding the establishment of Sharia panels in the South-West, arguing that opposition to the initiative stems from ignorance.
The proposal to set up Sharia arbitration panels in states like Oyo and Ekiti has sparked controversy, with critics citing concerns over the secular nature of Yoruba society. In Ekiti, traditional leader Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe directed the Chief Imam of Ado Ekiti to disband the panel, a move that fueled further debate. Some activists argue that states implementing Sharia law have faced increased insecurity, including religious conflicts and criminal activities.
However, proponents insist that the panels would only handle civil matters such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance among Muslims. Shittu defended the initiative, stating that such panels have existed peacefully in Lagos and Oyo for over a decade without infringing on the rights of non-Muslims.
He criticized state authorities and activists opposing the panels, claiming they misunderstand the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees religious freedom. According to him, it makes little sense for two Muslims married under Sharia law to seek divorce in a customary court where judges may not understand Islamic principles.
Shittu urged Muslim communities to challenge any attempts to obstruct the establishment of these panels, emphasizing that religious rights are protected under the law. He dismissed fears of forced implementation on non-Muslims, stating that participation in the panels would be voluntary and limited to adherents of Islam.
