Sultan of Sokoto Backs Establishment of Sharia Courts in South-West Nigeria

By Jemilu Hassan

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The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, has endorsed the proposal to establish Sharia courts in South-West states. This move has sparked intense debate, with various stakeholders expressing divergent views on the matter ¹.Proponents of the Sharia courts argue that they are essential for resolving disputes among Muslims in accordance with Islamic law. They emphasize that the courts will operate within the framework of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion and worship.However, opponents of the Sharia courts, including Christian leaders and traditional rulers, have expressed concerns that the courts may undermine the existing legal system and create religious tensions. They argue that the establishment of Sharia courts may be seen as an attempt to impose Islamic law on non-Muslims.Despite the opposition, the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs has maintained that the Sharia courts are necessary for promoting peace and justice among Muslims in the South-West. The council has assured that the courts will operate in accordance with the Nigerian Constitution and will not infringe on the rights of non-Muslims.The proposal to establish Sharia courts in South-West Nigeria has also received support from some Muslim leaders, who argue that it is a fundamental right of Muslims to have access to Sharia courts. They emphasize that the courts will provide an alternative dispute resolution mechanism for Muslims, which will help to reduce the burden on the conventional courts.

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