The Ekiti State Government has firmly denied reports of the establishment of a Sharia Court or an Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel in the state, following media publications suggesting otherwise.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata SAN, clarified that no such court or panel exists within the state’s judicial structure.
Apata was responding to reports that claimed certain Muslim leaders had started implementing Sharia law in the state. He emphasized that arbitration and mediation issues are considered quasi-judicial matters and are regulated by law in Ekiti.
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He pointed out that the existing courts in Ekiti, including the Customary Court, Customary Court of Appeal, and High Courts, have been handling issues related to Islamic, Christian, and traditional marriages, as well as inheritance, without any controversy.
According to Apata, Sharia Courts in the northern part of Nigeria are equivalent to the Customary Courts in the south, with appeals going to the Sharia Court of Appeal in the north and the Customary Court of Appeal in the south.
“The State High Courts and all other courts of record also have arbitration and mediation mechanisms. Customary Courts and the Customary Court of Appeal can effectively handle customary issues related to Yoruba traditional marriages, Islamic marriages, and Christian marriages, particularly those not recognized as statutory marriages, which can only be dissolved by the State High Courts,” Apata explained.
The Attorney-General also stressed the need for caution in handling religious matters, warning against any actions or statements that could disrupt the peaceful coexistence among residents of Ekiti. He reassured that the government would not tolerate any actions that threaten the state’s peace or foster hostility.
In his statement, Apata acknowledged the growing momentum surrounding the 2026 Ekiti governorship race, suggesting that some opposition members, unable to challenge the government’s performance, might resort to unethical practices. He advised religious leaders to be cautious not to be manipulated by politicians and other individuals with ulterior motives.
The Attorney-General further warned that the government would not hesitate to enforce the law to protect the Constitution of Nigeria and maintain peace in Ekiti State.
