Oyo Sharia Panel Begins Sitting, Gov Makinde Heads to Court Over Legality

A legal battle is brewing in Oyo State as Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration moves to challenge the establishment of a Sharia panel in Oyo town, declaring it unconstitutional.

The state government insists that only state or federal authorities have the legal mandate to establish judicial bodies.

The controversial panel, which has already begun sittings at the Central Mosque in Akesan, Oyo, is facing strong opposition from the government. Governor Makinde’s Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, reaffirmed the administration’s position, stating that the matter will be tested in court.

“The governor was clear from the outset: if it’s a constitutional matter, we must refer to the Constitution. Does it permit the establishment of a Sharia panel or court? If proponents claim it does, we will test it in court. We believe it doesn’t,” Olanrewaju stated.

He further emphasized that any judicial panel adjudicating on people’s affairs must have state recognition. “A panel that adjudicates on people’s affairs must have state backing. Otherwise, it’s illegal,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Sharia Committee of Oyo Land, Dr. Rafiu Bello, confirmed that the panel has begun operations, holding sessions every Thursday to address marital disputes, inheritance matters, and land conflicts.

“Nigerian law permits Sharia, and our panel is open to all, though designed for Muslims who voluntarily seek resolution under Islamic law,” Bello explained. He also noted that similar panels are already operational in Ogbomoso, Kisi, Saki, and Ibadan.

The establishment of the panel had previously been met with opposition, leading the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria to suspend its inauguration in January following public outcry. However, Bello revealed that sittings have now resumed discreetly.

Reacting to the development, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Oyo State, Rev. Joshua Akinyemiju, expressed concern over the panel’s operations.

“I knew they planned this earlier, but after protests, it was postponed indefinitely. If they’ve proceeded secretly, we will investigate,” Akinyemiju stated.