The Ekiti State Government has reiterated that neither the Sharia Court nor its Arbitration Panel is recognized within the state’s legal framework.
Dayo Apata, the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of Ekiti State, made this clarification in response to recent reports about a Sharia legal system operating in the state.
In a statement, Apata dismissed such claims as unfounded and described them as a hoax.
Addressing reports of a Sharia public sitting on two marriage disputes last week, Apata emphasized that the state already has a robust legal system to handle issues related to Christian, Islamic, and traditional marriages, as well as inheritance disputes.
“There is an existing legal structure in Ekiti State—comprising the Customary Court, Customary Court of Appeal, and High Court—that has effectively managed matters related to Islamic, Christian, and traditional marriages, as well as inheritance, without any discord or agitation,” Apata stated.
The Attorney General cautioned against actions or statements that could disrupt the peaceful coexistence among residents of Ekiti.
He assured that the state government remains committed to addressing any form of hostility.
“The Sharia Courts in the North are equivalent to the Customary Courts in the Southern part of Nigeria.
While appeals from Sharia Courts in the North go to the Sharia Court of Appeal, Ekiti State has a Customary Court of Appeal to hear appeals from Customary Courts,” he explained.
Apata further urged religious leaders to resist being influenced by politicians seeking to incite unrest.
He warned that the government would not hesitate to enforce the law to maintain peace and protect the safety of its residents.