Makinde Considers Legal Action Against Muslim Leaders Over Oyo Town Sharia Panel

A legal showdown may be brewing in Oyo State as Governor Seyi Makinde contemplates challenging the legality of a recently established Sharia panel in Oyo town. The move comes amid controversy surrounding the panel’s establishment and operation.

Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, hinted at possible legal action while addressing inquiries about the Sharia panel’s activities.He emphasized that the state government’s actions would be determined by the constitutionality of the panel.

“The governor was very clear on this matter from the outset. If it is a constitutional issue, then we must refer to the Constitution. Does the Constitution allow this? That is what will determine the state’s actions because we cannot act outside the law,” Olanrewaju stated.

He further questioned the legality of individuals or groups establishing courts without state backing: “So, does the Constitution allow the establishment of a Sharia panel or court? If they claim it does, it will be tested in court. I don’t think it does. The Constitution does not permit individuals or groups to set up a court in a state.

“Despite the potential legal challenge, Dr. Rafiu Bello, Chairman of the Sharia Committee of Oyo Land,confirmed that the panel has commenced sittings at the Central Mosque, Akesan, Oyo, every Thursday.”

The Sharia panel in Oyo has now been established and sits every Thursday from 10 am to 1 pm. Those knowledgeable in Sharia law preside over the panel, and people have started bringing cases before it,” Bello stated, asserting the panel’s lawfulness under Nigerian law.

Background and Justification

The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, Oyo chapter, had initially suspended the panel’s inauguration in January following public outcry. However, Bello defended its establishment as necessary for the South-West Muslim community.

He also revealed the existence of similar Sharia panels in other Oyo State locations, including Ogbomoso, Kisi, Saki, and Ibadan, with plans to announce a new date for the Oyo panel’s formal inauguration.

Government’s Stance

Makinde’s administration maintains its commitment to constitutional provisions. Olanrewaju reiterated that any panel must have state backing, emphasizing that individuals or groups cannot establish panels that sit in judgment over people without legal authority.

“Even if it is a panel, it must have the backing of the state,” Olanrewaju said. “The Federal Government and state governments can set up panels, but individuals or groups cannot establish panels that sit in judgment over people without legal backing. If anybody does that, it is illegal.”

Panel’s Operations

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The Oyo Sharia panel has reportedly handled cases related to marital disputes, inheritance, land disagreements, and contractual breaches during its inaugural sittings.

Bello clarified that the panel is designed for Muslims seeking resolution based on Islamic principles but remains open to both Muslims and non-Muslims.”Sharia is beneficial to Muslims and even non-Muslims.

It is voluntary. Sharia is a law of Allah relevant to all humans, and it is meant to guide conduct,” he stated, adding that the panel aims to offer advice rooted in Islamic teachings, emphasizing reconciliation and the fear of God in resolving disputes.

Opposition and Controversy

Opposition to the panel’s establishment remains strong, particularly from Christian groups and civil society organizations, who view it as an attempt to Islamize the South-West. Despite the resistance, proponents insist that the panel is non-negotiable and a necessary institution for the region’s Muslim community.

The situation remains tense as the state government weighs its legal options, potentially setting the stage for a landmark court case that could define the boundaries of religious practice and constitutional law in Oyo State.