Ekiti Shari’ah Panel Holds 1st Public Sitting on Disputes
Kehinde Fajobi
The Independent Shari’ah Arbitration Panel in Ekiti State convened its inaugural public session in Ado Ekiti, focusing on arbitration guided by Islamic jurisprudence.
During the sitting, the panel, comprising Kadhis Imam Abdullahi Abdul-Mutolib, Imam Abdulraheem Junaid-Bamigbola, and Dr Ibrahim Aminullahi-Ogunrinde, adjudicated two marriage-related cases.
In the first case, the panel resolved a marital dispute through a consent judgment, following earlier interventions by the couple’s family members, which facilitated a peaceful settlement.
However, the second case, involving a wife accusing her husband of neglecting marital duties, was adjourned to January 30.
The panel stated the postponement would allow further investigation to ensure a fair outcome.
Imam Abdul-Mutolib urged both parties to embrace Allah’s guidance in marriage.
“Couples must fear Allah and adhere to His injunctions. Wives should remain submissive and content with their husbands’ provisions,” he said.
The President of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Ekiti State, Alhaji Hammed Bakare, clarified the panel’s voluntary nature.
He explained, “Shari’ah adjudication is not compulsory. It is designed for Muslims or individuals who choose to resolve their grievances through this system. Non-Muslims are also welcome but are under no obligation to participate.”
Deputy President of the council, Barrister Tajudeen Hammed, assured the panel’s rulings align with Islamic scriptures and do not conflict with state civil laws.
“Submitting grievances to the Shari’ah panel is an integral part of our faith, but it is not mandatory for anyone, including Muslims,” he noted.
He praised the Kadhis for their expertise, highlighting their deep knowledge of the Qur’an and Hadith in delivering fair judgments.
Inaugurated in October 2024 by the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, the panel aims to resolve civil disputes such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance in accordance with Islamic principles for Muslims and voluntary participants.