Sharia court: Ex-president Buhari aide challenges SW governors’ interpretation of constitutional provisions

Bashir Ahmad, former media aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has questioned the understanding of the opposition of the Sharia court regarding the constitutional provisions of the law, especially, governors in the southwestern part of the country.

According to him, Islamic-based courts fall under religious freedom and legal recognition, both of which are safeguarded by the constitution.

Recall that the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, recently, ordered the dissolution of the Sharia panel set up at the Central Mosque, Ado.

The dissolution came after a similar Shariah panel in Oyo State, which faced significant opposition, was indefinitely postponed.

While reacting to the developments on his official X account, the former aide to Mr Buhari argued that the Nigerian constitution backed the right of Muslims to establish Sharia courts for matters concerning personal law.

He added that the establishment of the court “is not limited to the northern part of the country but extends to any region, including the West, East, and any other parts of this country.”

The ex-presidential aide said, “The recent opposition by some governors particularly in the South West to the setting up of Shari’a panels should raise questions about their understanding of constitutional provisions. It is important to note that the same Constitution that grants them the authority to lead also guarantees Muslims the right to establish Shari’a courts to adjudicate over our personal affairs such as marriage, inheritance, and contracts. Denying this right contradicts the very principles of democracy, fairness, and the rule of law. “

The politician explained that “the Shari’a court system does not impose its jurisdiction on non-Muslims; rather, it serves as a legal framework for Muslims who voluntarily seek its adjudication. In several northern states, Shari’a courts have functioned within the legal system, coexisting with the common law courts. We must recognize that governance is about upholding the law, not bending it to suit personal or political interests. If they claim to respect the Constitution, then they must acknowledge and protect the rights of all Nigerians, including the Muslim population seeking Shari’a panels.”

Bashir charged leaders to govern with knowledge, fairness, and respect for the rights of all citizens. “Anything less is an affront to democracy and justice.”