The Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), Professor Abdulkadir Abikan, has emphasized that Sharia panels handling family disputes for Muslims in southwestern Nigeria are a constitutional right, not a controversy.
Speaking at the Iftar and Award Night of the Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN) in Abuja, Professor Abikan stated, “Providing a legal framework for Muslim family matters is not a matter of debate but a constitutional obligation of the government”.
According to Professor Abikan, Sharia panels have existed for over two decades, serving as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism for Muslims. He criticized the recent formal announcement of Sharia panels, arguing that they have functioned effectively for decades in states like Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, and Osun without controversy. “Why make an official declaration about a system that has been working efficiently for years?” he asked.
The Chairman of the Muslim Lawyers Association of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter (MULAN), Mr. Al-Bashir Likko, reinforced this stance, stating that the introduction of Sharia panels in Lagos is not a new development but a constitutional right of Muslims. He cited sections of the 1999 Constitution, affirming the right of Muslims to practice personal laws on marriage, divorce, and inheritance without external interference.
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Architect AbuJabir Abdallah Musa, a discussant at the event, highlighted Sections 37 and 38 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantee the fundamental human rights to freedom of association and religious practice, both privately and publicly. “Muslims in the southwest must assert their right to Sharia panels, just as they already have Sharia courts in Northern Nigeria,” he stated.
The event, themed “Faith, Law, and Social Responsibility,” featured Qur’anic recitations and award presentations, including a special recognition for former Bauchi State Governor, Alhaji Mohammad Abubakar, for his contributions to law and humanity. As Nigeria continues to evolve its legal frameworks, voices advocating for the institutionalisation of Sharia panels argue that recognizing them is not about imposing religion but about ensuring justice and inclusivity for all.