The Ekiti State Government has reiterated its position against the recognition of the Sharia Court and the proposed Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel within its judicial framework.
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This was clarified by the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata (SAN), who stated that issues concerning arbitration and mediation are considered quasi-judicial matters, governed by state law.
Apata stressed that Ekiti State has a well-established legal system, consisting of the Customary Court, Customary Court of Appeal, and High Court, which already effectively address matters related to Islamic, Christian, and traditional marriages, as well as inheritance. He pointed out that these courts have been operating without major conflicts.
The Ekiti State Government issued this statement after the newly established Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel held its inaugural public sitting in Ado Ekiti.
During the session, the panel, led by three Kadhis, resolved two marriage-related disputes. Despite the panel’s activity, the state government’s position on the legitimacy of the panel remains unchanged..
