The recent wave of criticisms targeting the establishment of Shariah panels in Nigeria reflects a troubling mix of ignorance and prejudice.
These panels, designed as voluntary arbitration mechanisms for Muslims, are neither threats to Nigeria’s legal framework nor impositions on non-Muslims.
Rather, they serve as avenues for resolving personal disputes within the framework of Islamic principles, operating entirely within the confines of the Nigerian Constitution.*
*SHARIAH PANELS ARE NOT COURTS*
A fundamental error driving the criticisms is the misconception that Shariah panels are equivalent to Shariah courts. Unlike judicial courts, *these panels have no enforcement powers and are purely voluntary platforms for dispute resolution among Muslims. Their role is akin to other mediation or arbitration bodies that exist within Nigeria’s legal framework.*
To equate these panels with judicial courts is not only misleading but a deliberate attempt to incite fear and foster division. Such portrayals seek to delegitimize a peaceful and historically accepted mechanism of conflict resolution.
*SHARIAH IN NIGERIA: A LEGACY OF CENTURIES*
Shariah principles have been integral to Nigeria’s socio-cultural fabric for over two centuries, predating the colonial legal system and Christianity. For Muslim communities, these principles have provided guidance, order, and justice. To criticize or seek to abolish the Shariah panel is to disregard Nigeria’s history and deny Muslims their religious identity and rights.
This resistance to Shariah panels resembles an attack on fundamental Islamic practices. It is equivalent to forbidding Muslims from observing their daily prayers, which is an inseparable aspect of their faith.
*NIGERIA’S LEGAL SYSTEM: A LEGACY OF CHRISTIAN INFLUENCE*
*Critics of Shariah panels often ignore the fact that Nigeria’s current legal framework is largely rooted in Christian and colonial traditions. The penal code and common law system introduced during colonial rule were heavily influenced by Christian ideologies.*
*Despite this, Muslims have coexisted peacefully under this system, demonstrating tolerance and understanding. It is only fair that similar respect is accorded to Muslims for establishing Shariah panels, which in no way infringe upon the rights of non-Muslims.*
*RELIGIOUS FREEDOM IS CONSTITUTIONALLY GUARANTEED*
*Section 38 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution guarantees every individual the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. This includes the right to manifest one’s religion through practices like Shariah arbitration. Therefore, Shariah panels fall squarely within the purview of constitutional rights and freedoms.*
*Opposition to these panels constitutes an infringement on the rights of Muslims to practice their faith. Such a stance is discriminatory and a violation of Nigeria’s constitutional principles.*
*ADVOCATING FOR MUTUAL RESPECT AND PEACE*
Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity. As a multi-religious nation, the principles of tolerance and mutual respect are essential for peaceful coexistence. *Unfortunately, some individuals exploit religious differences to spread fear and hatred. The Shariah panel is not a tool of oppression; it is a moral and spiritual mechanism for resolving disputes among willing Muslims.*
Critics must abandon their misplaced fears. Just as Christians have their arbitration platforms, Muslims are equally entitled to theirs. Tolerance does not require agreement; it simply demands respect for the rights of others to practice their faith.
*UNITING FOR A PEACEFUL NIGERIA*
Let us reject the voices of division and embrace the diversity that defines Nigeria. The Shariah panel is not a threat to national unity; intolerance and ignorance are. By respecting constitutional freedoms and understanding each other’s beliefs, we can build a peaceful and harmonious Nigeria.
No one has the right to deny Muslims their religious practices, just as no one has the right to suppress the practices of any other faith group. Together, let us uphold the rule of law, champion tolerance, and foster unity for the progress of our beloved nation.
*Ustadh Tajudeen Jimoh Alao (AAN)*
*Chairman, MURIC Ogun State Chapter*
*28/01/2025.*
*08066335057*
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