The Ekiti State Government has firmly dismissed reports suggesting the existence of a Sharia Court or a proposed Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel within the state’s judicial system.
In a statement released on Thursday, the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata (SAN), clarified that no such body is recognized within the state’s legal framework.
He emphasized that arbitration and mediation are quasi-judicial matters already governed by established laws in the state.
Customary Court System Handles All Cases
Mr. Apata explained that Ekiti State’s judicial structure comprises Customary Courts, a Customary Court of Appeal, and a High Court.
These courts effectively handle cases related to Islamic, Christian, and traditional marriages, as well as inheritance matters, without any reported conflicts.
Drawing comparisons, he noted that Sharia Courts in northern Nigeria serve a similar purpose to Customary Courts in the south.
Appeals from these courts are directed to the Sharia Court of Appeal in the North, just as appeals from Customary Courts in the South go to the Customary Court of Appeal.
He further stated that Ekiti State’s courts are equipped with arbitration and mediation mechanisms to resolve disputes.
For issues arising from Yoruba traditional marriages, Islamic marriages, and Christian marriages that are not bound by statutory marriage laws, Customary Courts and the Customary Court of Appeal provide sufficient avenues for resolution.
Statutory marriages, however, can only be dissolved by High Courts across the country.
Religious Matters Require Sensitivity
Mr. Apata cautioned that religious issues must be approached with the utmost care to avoid disrupting the peace and unity among residents.
He urged against activities that could jeopardize the state government’s policy of peaceful coexistence, warning that the government will not tolerate any actions that could incite hostility.
Politics and Governance
Commenting on the upcoming 2026 governorship election, the Attorney-General noted that opposition members who cannot criticize the current administration’s performance are resorting to unethical practices to destabilize the government.
He called on religious leaders to avoid being manipulated by politicians and fifth columnists, reminding them of the government’s commitment to safeguarding the Constitution and maintaining peace in the state.
He further warned that any attempts to disrupt the prevailing harmony will be met with the full force of the law.
Ekiti residents are encouraged to uphold the state’s tradition of peaceful coexistence and report any suspicious activities aimed at causing division.
Let us collectively support the state government’s efforts to ensure harmony and stability.
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