Justice Abdullateef Kamaldeen, Grand Kadi of the Kwara State Shariah Court of Appeal, has inaugurated an 11-member Shariah Arbitration Panel in Ekiti State, assuring that the panel will deliver justice impartially and without bias toward any religious group.
Justice Kamaldeen, in his remarks highlighted that Shariah law is a fundamental right for Muslims in Ekiti and expressed that the panel’s establishment was long overdue.
The Grand Kadi called on panel members to uphold their responsibilities with integrity, impartiality, and accountability to Allah.
He further encouraged Muslim stakeholders in Ekiti to work with relevant authorities to advocate for the creation of both an Area Court and a Shariah Court of Appeal in the state.
“The establishment of this independent Shariah panel is an essential first step, yet a temporary arrangement.
“As law-abiding residents, Muslims in Ekiti should have access to a judicial forum to practice Islamic law. The absence of a Shariah Court should not deprive Muslims of their constitutional right to Islamic personal law.”
Justice Kamaldeen further remarked that high courts and magistrate courts lack jurisdiction over Islamic law matters, while customary courts are designated solely for customary law.
“It is unjust for any government to maintain this imbalance, denying Muslims a legitimate forum,” he said, expressing hope that the Ekiti State government will address the need by establishing a Shariah Court.
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, represented by Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro, reiterated his administration’s commitment to promoting peace and religious harmony.
The President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas for the Southwest, Edo, and Delta, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere urged the panel members to view their role as a significant responsibility and to enhance their knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence.
The President of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Ekiti, Dr Hammed Bakare, described the panel as composed of respected scholars, who have pledged to dedicate their time and resources to fulfilling their duties.
Dr. Bakare also commended Ekiti State government for accommodating the rights of Muslim students and workers to wear hijab.