BUHARI’S LEGACY ON FIRE! Former Minister Sparks Outrage With Support for Sharia Panels In Southwest

BUHARI’S LEGACY ON FIRE! Former Minister Sparks Outrage With Support for Sharia Panels In Southwest

A former Minister of Communications under President Muhammadu Buhari, Adebayo Shittu, has expressed his support for the establishment of Sharia panels in the southwestern states of Nigeria. He asserted that those opposing the creation of these panels are simply unaware of the provisions outlined in the Nigerian Constitution.

In a television interview addressing the controversy surrounding the proposed Sharia panels and the pushback from some community stakeholders, Shittu maintained that the law permits such panels to be formed.

Using Lagos as a case in point, he noted that Sharia panels have been operational in the state for over a decade without any issues, emphasizing that these panels would only apply to Muslims and that individuals of other faiths have no reason to be concerned.

Shittu further argued that it is only logical for any contract validated by Sharia law to also be annulled through the same legal framework rather than relying on customary laws.

He encouraged the Muslim communities in the affected states to challenge any efforts to obstruct the establishment of the panels in court, stating, “In Yorubaland, whether it’s governors or so-called Yoruba activists, their issue stems from a lack of understanding of Nigeria’s constitution.”

“Sharia pertains to fundamental human rights concerning religion. The Constitution guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. What sense does it make for two Muslims to marry in a mosque under Sharia law and, when they wish to divorce, be compelled to go to a Customary Court that may consist entirely of Christians, animists, or others who do not understand the religious laws under which they were married?”

“Common sense dictates that the legal framework under which you were married should apply in divorce proceedings. In Oyo State, there has been a Sharia Panel, and in Lagos for more than ten years—what crises have arisen from it? Have any Christians or non-Muslims been summoned to a Sharia Court?”

He concluded by stating that these fundamental constitutional rights to religious practice are inherent to every individual, whether in Ekiti or anywhere else, and people should have the right to choose under which legal system they govern their affairs. Shittu expects the Muslim community in those states to seek legal recourse against any forces attempting to disrupt their peace.

For More Information And News Update, Join Ireporteronline WhatsApp Channel With Link Below: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaV4jB6DuMRgwqnJCF32 For advertisement inquiries only, kindly send a message to 09010649814 on Whatsapp