Experts have expressed differing views on the proposed establishment of Sharia arbitration panels in parts of South-West Nigeria.
While some argue that these panels—comprised of Islamic scholars handling marriage and inheritance disputes—will promote sustainable peace, others fear they could provoke division and religious tension in the historically peaceful region.
The debate was aired on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, a socio-political programme on Channels Television.
Recently, the proposal to introduce Sharia panels in states like Ogun and Oyo has caused unease. Traditional institutions and Christian groups have opposed the move, while the Ogun and Oyo state governments have rejected the idea. However, Nigeria’s Muslim community and the NSCIA, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, insist that the panels offer an effective dispute resolution mechanism for Muslims.
Arguments in Favour
A lawyer, Adam Oloriaje, former Secretary-General of the Muslim Lawyers Association, dismissed concerns about the panels, stating that they do not threaten peaceful co-existence in the South-West.
He argued that Sharia arbitration has operated in Lagos for 22 years, helping Muslims resolve disputes without coercion. He cited Section 38 of the Nigerian Constitution, which allows citizens to practise their religion freely, and suggested that opposition to the panels stems from either ignorance or intolerance.
“Sharia arbitration panels have existed in Lagos for over two decades, holding weekend sessions to resolve personal matters among Muslims,” Oloriaje said. “Many misunderstand the concept and immediately associate it with forced conversion or religious conflict. That is simply not true.”
Opposition and Concerns
Conversely, security and governance strategist David Okoror warned that the panels might fuel suspicion in the South-West.
“The Yoruba people have a long history of religious harmony,” he said. “If this system has not been necessary for decades, why introduce it now? This debate is creating unnecessary fear and division.”
Similarly, US-based social commentator Fola Ojo argued that Nigeria should focus on development rather than religious disputes.
“In 2025, when nations are advancing in education and healthcare, we are still debating religion,” Ojo remarked. “Sections 275 to 279 of the Nigerian Constitution state that only state and national assemblies can establish courts. When people heard ‘Sharia court,’ it raised immediate red flags. This move could disrupt the long-standing peace in the South-West.”
The discussion over Sharia arbitration panels remains contentious, with no clear resolution in sight.