Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced plans to take legal action over the establishment of a Sharia panel in the state.
This statement came as the panel began holding sessions at the Central Mosque in Akesan, Oyo town.
The governor, speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, emphasized that any panel operating in the state must align with constitutional provisions.
The Sharia panel, chaired by Dr. Rafiu Bello, commenced its sessions last Thursday, handling cases related to marital issues, inheritance, land disputes, and breaches of agreements.
According to Bello, the panel is open to both Muslims and non-Muslims, though it primarily caters to Muslims seeking resolution under Islamic law.
The panel’s establishment has sparked debates, with Christian groups expressing concern about its implications.
The Oyo chapter of the Supreme Council for Shari’ah had previously suspended the panel’s inauguration following public opposition.
Despite this, Bello stated that Sharia panels already exist in other parts of the state, including Ibadan, Ogbomoso, Kisi, and Saki.
Governor Makinde, reaffirming the government’s commitment to constitutional law, warned that any panel or court not backed by the state would be deemed illegal.
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