The Oyo State Sharia Panel has commenced sittings in Oyo town, sparking controversy and opposition from Christian groups and Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration. The panel, established by the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, Oyo chapter, aims to adjudicate disputes among Muslims in the South-West region.
Governor Makinde has vowed to challenge the legality of the Sharia panel in court, citing concerns over its constitutionality. According to Makinde’s Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the governor’s administration will test the legality of the panel in court, emphasizing that the Constitution does not allow individuals or groups to establish courts.
The Sharia panel’s chairman, Dr. Rafiu Bello, confirmed that the panel has begun sittings at the Central Mosque, Akesan, Oyo, and is hearing cases related to marital disharmony, inheritance, breach of agreements, land disputes, and other matters. Bello emphasized that the panel is open to both Muslims and non-Muslims, and its services are voluntary.
However, the Christian Association of Nigeria in Oyo State has expressed opposition to the Sharia panel, with Chairman Joshua Akinyemiju stating that he was unaware of the panel’s establishment or sittings in Oyo town.
The controversy surrounding the Oyo State Sharia Panel highlights the ongoing debates over the role of Sharia law in Nigeria’s secular democracy. As the matter heads to court, it remains to be seen how the judiciary will interpret the constitutionality of the Sharia panel.
