NSCIA supports establishment of Independent Shari’ah (Arbitration) Panel in Ekiti, Oyo


The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Ekiti State Council, expresses its deep disappointment over recent statements and actions taken by certain state authorities and traditional institutions regarding the Independent Shari’ah (Arbitration) Panel inaugurated on Saturday, October 26, 2024.

According to a statement signed by Alh. (Dr) H. A. Bakare, The President of NSCIA Ekiti State Council; and Sheik Ahmad Yusuf, the Public Relations Officer of NSCIA Ekiti State Council, the Council wishes to respond to these developments as follows:

  1. The Legality of the Independent Shari’ah Arbitration Panel

The Independent Shari’ah Arbitration Panel is an initiative rooted in the constitutional provisions of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Section 38 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees every Nigerian the fundamental human right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, including the right to manifest and practice their religion. Section 6 of the Constitution further provides for the establishment of arbitration panels for willing participants seeking resolution of civil matters outside of conventional courts.

The Shari’ah Arbitration Panel operates strictly within these constitutional boundaries and is designed solely for the resolution of civil and marital disputes among consenting Muslims. It does not and will not exercise jurisdiction over penal cases or matters outside the purview of Islamic personal law. The Panel is a voluntary platform, and no individual or group is compelled to participate in its proceedings.

  1. Clarification on the Role and Operations of the Panel

We categorically dispel the deliberate misrepresentation of the Panel as a court or a body seeking to punish individuals. The Panel is an arbitration body established to serve the needs of Muslims who wish to resolve their disputes in accordance with the principles of Shari’ah. This is a globally recognized practice in multi-religious societies and has been successfully implemented in several states in Nigeria and beyond.

The operations of the Panel are peaceful, transparent, and in no way intended to create religious disharmony or infringe upon the rights of non-Muslims. It is a voluntary mechanism for Muslims seeking justice in matters of personal law, particularly family and marital issues.

  1. Rejection of the Directive by the Ewi-in-Council

While we hold the traditional institutions of Ekiti State in high regard, we must respectfully reject the directive of the Ewi-in-Council to disband the Panel. The directive is a gross overreach and infringes upon the constitutional rights of Muslims in Ekiti State to practice their religion freely. The Ewi-in-Council does not have the legal authority to disband a lawful arbitration panel established under the Nigerian Constitution.

We urge the Ewi-in-Council to respect the pluralistic nature of our society and to recognise that the Shari’ah Arbitration Panel is a tool for fostering peace and justice, not division.

  1. Addressing the Statement by the Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General

We are deeply concerned by the statement of the Ekiti State Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General denying the existence of the Panel and calling for its ban. This position is not only contradictory but also a disservice to the principles of justice and inclusion.

The Commissioner’s statement undermines the trust and cooperation that should exist between the government and its citizens. We urge the Attorney General to engage in constructive dialogue with the Muslim community to understand the purpose and operations of the Panel rather than fostering unwarranted fears and misconceptions.

  1. Our Commitment to Peace and Continuity

The NSCIA, Ekiti State Council, remains committed to promoting peaceful coexistence among all religious groups in the state. The Shari’ah Arbitration Panel is an integral part of our efforts to ensure justice and equity for Muslims while respecting the rights of others.

We reassure the public that:

The Panel will continue its operations, providing arbitration services to willing Muslims in Ekiti State.

The Panel will remain transparent, peaceful, and compliant with the laws of the land.

The Panel poses no threat to the unity or harmony of Ekiti State, as it serves only those who voluntarily seek its services.

  1. Call for Constructive Engagement

We call on all stakeholders, including the Ekiti State Government, the Ewi-in-Council, and the broader community, to engage with the Muslim community constructively. Misunderstandings and misrepresentations can be resolved through dialogue and mutual respect, rather than confrontation and unconstitutional directives.

The statement concludes that the NSCIA, Ekiti State Council, will not relent in its efforts to safeguard the rights of Muslims in Ekiti State to practice their religion without fear or intimidation. The Shari’ah Arbitration Panel is a lawful initiative that serves the needs of willing Muslims and promotes peace and justice. ‘’We urge all parties to respect the constitutional provisions that guarantee freedom of religion and association and to work together toward building a harmonious and inclusive society in Ekiti State’’, it added.

Read Also: Book Review: HEALTHFUL ḤAJJ: A Wellness Guide to Ḥajj and ‘Umrah by Dr. Mariam V. Lawal

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