How Those Opposing Establishment Of Sharia Panels In South West Are Ignorant – Former Minister Shittu

A former communications minister, Adebayo Shittu, has strongly criticized those who have opposed the establishment of the Independent Sharia Panel of Arbitration in the South West region.

The creation of the panel has faced backlash from various groups in the region, including state governors and traditional leaders.

Read Also: Ekiti Government Speaks On Alleged Sharia Court, Panel In State’s Judicial Structure

SPECIAL OFFER

In an interview on AIT, Mr. Shittu, who hails from Oyo State, argued that the opposition to the Sharia panels is driven by ignorance and intolerance.

He pointed out that these panels have been functioning in some states for over ten years, resolving civil disputes among Muslims.

“In Yorubaland, whether governors or the so-called Yoruba activists, their problem is ignorance of the constitution of Nigeria.

“Sharia is about fundamental human rights in relation to religion. The constitution guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.

“What is the sense of two Muslims going to get married in the mosque under Sharia Law, and when they want to divorce, you ask them to go to a Customary Court which may be completely made up of even Christians, animists or people who do not understand the law under which these people got married.

“Common sense dictates that the law under which you married should be the one to be used in deciding on your divorce,” he said.

SPECIAL OFFER

He also rejected claims that the establishment of the panels would result in crisis and chaos in the South West.

“In Oyo State, there has been a Sharia Panel and in Lagos State for more than 10 years. What crisis has it caused to anybody? Has any Christian or non-Muslims been drafted to a Sharia Court?

“These constitutional religious rights are inherent in you as a human being whether in Ekiti or anywhere, people have a right to determine under which law they manage their affairs.

“I expect the Muslim community in those states would take the government or people trying to disturb their peace to court,” Mr Shittu added.

For More Information And News Update, Join Informant Online WhatsApp Channel With Link Below:

https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaihFajBadmT29ufud2Z