The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has strongly condemned the growing opposition to the establishment of Independent Sharia Arbitration Panels in parts of South-West Nigeria, calling it a blatant disregard for the religious rights of Muslims.

In a statement issued on January 29, 2025, the council, led by its President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, expressed deep concern over what it described as increasing intolerance against Islamic practices in the region. The NSCIA specifically criticized the resistance to the proposed Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel in Ekiti State, which has faced strong opposition from political and traditional leaders.

The council noted that this development comes just weeks after a similar initiative in Oyo State was met with public anxiety, leading to its indefinite suspension. It emphasized that these panels are voluntary platforms established to handle civil and marital disputes among consenting Muslims, ensuring that matters concerning Islamic personal law are resolved within the framework of their faith.

According to the NSCIA, the initiative was meant to address a long-standing gap left by the failure of political leaders in the South-West to establish Sharia Courts, which are legally permitted under the Nigerian Constitution. The council reaffirmed that such courts are a fundamental right of Muslims and should not be subject to undue restrictions.

Furthermore, the NSCIA highlighted other forms of discrimination against Muslims in the region, particularly the persistent denial of female students’ right to wear the hijab, despite a Supreme Court ruling affirming their right to do so. It described these actions as deliberate attempts to marginalize Muslims and suppress their religious freedoms.

The statement also clarified that both the Independent Arbitration Panel and the Sharia Court of Appeal are legally recognized under Section 275 of the 1999 Constitution, just like the Customary Court of Appeal, reinforcing their legitimacy.

The NSCIA urged political leaders, policymakers, and the general public to respect religious diversity and uphold constitutional provisions that guarantee freedom of worship. It warned that continued opposition to Islamic institutions and practices could deepen religious divisions and undermine national unity.

As tensions rise, the council called for dialogue and mutual understanding, stressing that religious tolerance remains the cornerstone of a peaceful and inclusive society.