The Ekiti State Government has dismissed reports suggesting the existence of a Sharia Court or the establishment of an Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel within the state.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/2026-IDRI-Masterclass.png")
In a statement released on Thursday by the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata (SAN), the government clarified that the Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel, which reportedly held its first sitting at the Ado-Ekiti Central Mosque during the week, is not recognized within the judicial structure of the state.
“The Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel is not part of the judicial structure of Ekiti State. Arbitration and mediation are quasi-judicial matters regulated by law in the state,” Apata stated.
He emphasized that Ekiti State already has a legal framework comprising Customary Courts, the Customary Court of Appeal, and the High Court, which effectively address issues related to Islamic, Christian, and Traditional marriages and inheritance without any conflict or agitation.
Apata explained that Sharia Courts in the northern region of Nigeria are equivalent to Customary Courts in the southern part of the country. In Ekiti, Customary Courts and the Customary Court of Appeal handle cases involving Yoruba traditional marriages, Islamic marriages, and Christian marriages, particularly those not recognized as statutory marriages, which can only be dissolved by the High Court.
The Attorney-General stressed the importance of maintaining peace and cautioned against actions that could jeopardize the state’s policy of peaceful coexistence. “This is a religious matter that must be handled with utmost care. The government will not tolerate any activities that threaten the prevailing peace or foster hostility in the state,” Apata warned.
He also noted that as the race for the 2026 governorship election gains momentum, opposition members who cannot fault the government’s performance are resorting to unethical tactics.
Apata urged religious leaders to avoid being used as tools by politicians and fifth columnists. He reiterated the government’s commitment to upholding the Constitution and ensuring peaceful coexistence among residents. “The government will not hesitate to invoke the full weight of the law to maintain order and protect the Constitution,” he added.
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
Available now for NGN 40,000 at ASC Publications, 10, Boyle Street, Onikan, Lagos. Beside High Court, TBS. Email publications@ayindesanni.com or WhatsApp +2347056667384. Purchase Link: https://paystack.com/buy/evidence-act-complete-annotation
______________________________________________________________________ “Enhance Legal Practice With Authoritative Reports” — Alexander Payne Offers Comprehensive Law Reports, Spanning Over A Century Of Nigerian Jurisprudence
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
