Ekiti State Government has dismissed claims about the existence of the Sharia Court or a proposed Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel within the state’s judicial framework.
In a statement issued to the press in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday, the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata (SAN), clarified that neither the Sharia Court nor the Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel is part of Ekiti’s judicial structure. He explained that the arbitration and mediation process falls under Quasi-Judicial matters, regulated by law in the state.
Apata highlighted that Ekiti State has an established legal framework consisting of the Customary Court, Customary Court of Appeal, and High Court, which effectively address matters related to Islamic, Christian, and traditional marriages and inheritance without conflict. He added, “the Sharia Courts in the North are equivalent to the Customary Courts in the Southern part of Nigeria wherein the Appeals therefrom also goes to the Sharia Court of Appeal,” further noting, “the State similarly has Customary Courts that hear customary cases as well as the Customary Court of Appeal that hears appeals from the Customary Courts.”
He also mentioned that the High Courts and other courts in the state possess arbitration and mediation mechanisms. Apata emphasized that the Customary Courts and the Customary Court of Appeal are fully capable of handling issues arising from Yoruba traditional marriages, Islamic marriages, and Christian marriages, particularly those not supported by statutory marriages, which can only be dissolved by the High Courts across Nigeria.
Apata further addressed the sensitive nature of the issue, stating that it is a religious matter requiring careful handling. He cautioned against any actions that could undermine the state’s commitment to peaceful coexistence among its residents, making it clear that the government would not tolerate anything that might disturb the prevailing peace or foster hostility. He remarked, “Government would not compromise on any action that may hinder the prevailing peace and fester hostility in the State.”
He also acknowledged the growing political activity in Ekiti State as the 2026 governorship election approaches. Apata suggested that some opposition members, unable to criticize the performance of the state government, have resorted to unethical practices. He warned that religious leaders should be cautious about being manipulated by politicians and other elements for ulterior motives. “Government will not hesitate to invoke the full weight of the law to protect the Constitution of the Federation and maintain peaceful co-existence in the state,” he concluded.
In summary, the Ekiti State government affirmed its commitment to maintaining a peaceful and lawful environment, emphasizing that the state’s existing judicial structures are capable of addressing religious and customary matters.
