Sharia panels establishment generate controversy in South-West of Nigeria
The establishment of Sharia panels in the South-West geopolitical zone of Nigeria has sparked huge controversy due to a combination of historical, cultural, and legal factors.
Sharia panels have historically existed in various forms within the South-West states for years, primarily focusing on civil matters such as marriage, divorce, custody, and inheritance among Muslims.
However, their presence has not been as pronounced as in Northern Nigeria, where Sharia law is more deeply integrated into the legal system. The recent push to formalize these panels has reignited debates about their role and implications.
The controversy intensified with a proposal from the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria (SCSN) to establish a Sharia panel in Oyo State.
This proposal was met with widespread concern among various groups who feared it could lead to the institutionalization of Sharia law similar to that seen in Northern states. Opponents argue that this could result in extreme interpretations of Islamic law being applied, which they associate with harsh penalties such as stoning or amputation.
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Much of the opposition stems from misinformation circulating on social media platforms. Many people misconstrue the purpose of these panels as an attempt to impose strict Islamic laws on a multi-religious society that includes Christians and traditionalists.
This misunderstanding has fueled fears about potential conflicts arising from religious differences.
According to statements from organizations like the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), these Sharia panels lack enforcement powers and are intended solely for civil arbitration among willing parties.
Their decisions are non-binding and voluntary, akin to committees found in other religious settings (e.g., church committees). Despite this clarification, public perception remains clouded by fears of coercive enforcement.
Prominent traditional leaders have voiced strong opposition against the establishment of Sharia panels, arguing that they could lead to societal discord. For instance, Gani Adams, Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, expressed concerns that introducing Sharia law would create significant problems given the region’s diverse religious landscape.
The inauguration of a Sharia panel in Ekiti State faced immediate backlash when local monarchs ordered its dissolution due to public sentiment against it.
