Ekiti monarch shuts down Sharia panel, warn Islamic leaders against violence

January 25, 2025

By Gbenga Odusote

The Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, has taken a bold step in dissolving the Sharia panel set up at the Central Mosque in Ado Ekiti.

This decision was made in the interest of maintaining peaceful coexistence and law and order within the community.

Adejugbe’s move came after a meeting with the Chief Imam, Sheik Jamiu Kewulere, and other Muslim leaders, as well as chiefs and indigenes of the community. The meeting was convened to address tensions surrounding the Sharia panel issue.

The monarch stated, “Based on this Sharia issue, I summoned the Chief Imam and his lieutenants… to discuss the matter because it is a sensitive issue.”

He went on to say that the Sharia panel was not necessary and should be dissolved, citing that it could lead to crises if allowed to continue.

Adejugbe emphasized, “The panel stands dissolved. If we should allow such committees, the Christians too will want to set up committees in their various churches, the traditional worshippers too, and before you know it, it will lead to crises.”

The Chief Imam, Kewulere, had earlier confirmed the setting up of the committee, stating that it was intended to resolve disputes and look into matters of inheritance. However, Adejugbe’s decision to dissolve the panel takes precedence, ensuring that the community maintains its peaceful coexistence.

This development comes on the heels of the state government’s statement that the existing legal structure in Ekiti State does not recognize the Sharia Court or Sharia Arbitration Panel.

The state Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Dayo Apata, had noted that the state’s judicial system has been effectively handling issues related to Islamic, Christian, and traditional marriages and inheritance without any issues.