Sharia panels: Constitutional right, not a Controversy—NIALS DG

The Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), Professor Abdulkadir Abikan, has asserted that Sharia panels handling family disputes for Muslims in southwestern Nigeria have existed for over two decades. He dismissed the recent controversy surrounding their establishment as an unnecessary politicisation of a long-standing system.

Speaking at the Iftar and Award Night of the Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN) in Abuja, Professor Abikan emphasised that providing a legal framework for Muslim family matters is not a matter of debate but a constitutional obligation of the government.

He explained that Sharia panels serve as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism for Muslims, addressing a gap in the legal system where the government has failed to provide adequate structures since independence.

Professor Abikan noted that while the Nigerian government has legal provisions for Christians under the Marriage Act and traditionalists through customary laws, no similar system has been formally recognised for Muslims in the southwest, south-south, and southeast regions. In contrast, northern Nigeria has maintained its Islamic legal structures despite colonial influences, allowing for an organised resolution of family matters.

He criticised the recent formal announcement of Sharia panels, arguing that they have functioned effectively for decades in states like Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, and Osun without controversy.

“Why make an official declaration about a system that has been working efficiently for years?” he asked. “These panels have been quietly resolving family disputes without interference. Denying Muslims access to these structures could lead to deeper societal crises.”

According to him, unresolved family conflicts could escalate into broader security threats with long-term consequences for national stability. He, therefore, urged state governments to uphold the constitutional rights of Muslim citizens by formally recognising and institutionalising the Sharia panels.

A Constitutional Right, Not a New Development
The Chairman of the Muslim Lawyers Association of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter (MULAN), Mr. Al-Bashir Likko, reinforced this stance, stating that introducing Sharia panels in Lagos is not a new development but a constitutional right of Muslims. He cited sections of the 1999 Constitution, affirming the right of Muslims to practice personal laws on marriage, divorce, and inheritance without external interference.

He also addressed concerns and misconceptions about the panels, clarifying that they operate voluntarily and do not impose Islamic laws on non-Muslims.

One of the discussants, architect AbuJabir Abdallah Musa (Penabul), highlighted Sections 37 and 38 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantee the fundamental human rights to freedom of association and religious practice, privately and publicly.

“Muslims in the southwest must assert their right to Sharia panels, just as they already have Sharia courts in Northern Nigeria,” he stated. “With these panels, they can resolve family matters within a legal framework that aligns with their beliefs. If properly managed, even non-Muslims will come to appreciate their fairness and justice. What we need is proper enlightenment on the benefits of Sharia panels in southwestern Nigeria.”

Drawing comparisons with existing Sharia and area courts in Kano and Abuja, he stressed that these institutions serve only those who willingly seek adjudication under Islamic law.

A Night of Law, Faith, and Recognition
The event attracted high-profile personalities from various sectors across Nigeria.

Themed “Faith, Law, and Social Responsibility,” the night featured Qur’anic recitations and award presentations, including a special recognition for former Bauchi State Governor, Alhaji Mohammad Abubakar, for his contributions to law and humanity.

As Nigeria continues to evolve its legal frameworks, voices advocating for the institutionalisation of Sharia panels argue that recognising them is not about imposing religion but about ensuring justice and inclusivity for all.

Ademola Adepoju