Ekiti Government Denies Existence of Sharia Court

By Oluronke Kuku

The Ekiti State Government has denied the existence of a Sharia Court or the propose Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel in the State. The State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata (SAN), made this declaration in a statement released to the press in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday.

Apata emphasized that the state’s judicial structure does not include the Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel, as arbitration and mediation issues are quasi-judicial matters regulated by law.

He highlighted the existing legal framework in Ekiti State, comprising Customary Court, Customary Court of Appeal, and High Court, which have been effectively handling issues related to Islamic, Christian, and traditional marriages, as well as inheritance, without any controversy.

According to Apata, the Sharia Courts in Northern Nigeria are equivalent to the Customary Courts in the southern region, with appeals going to the Sharia Court of Appeal. 

Similarly, Ekiti State has Customary Courts that hear customary cases, and the Customary Court of Appeal handles appeals from these courts.

Apata cautioned against activities that may undermined the state government’s policy of peaceful coexistence among residents, stressing that the government will not compromise on any action that may hinder peace and foster hostility. 

He advised religious leaders to be wary of being used as tools by politicians and fifth columnists, as the government will invoke the full weight of the law to protect the Constitution and maintain peaceful coexistence.

This declaration comes as the 2026 Governorship election is gaining momentum in Ekiti State, with opposition members allegedly resorting to unethical practices. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the Constitution and maintaining peace in the State.