The Muslim community in Ekiti State has strongly opposed the recent directive by the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, to dissolve the Shari’ah arbitration panel established at the central mosque in the state capital. The community described the decision as unjustified and an abuse of authority.
The monarch issued the directive during a meeting in Ado-Ekiti on Saturday, attended by key figures, including the Chief Imam of the state, Jamie Kewulere, traditional rulers, and other Muslim leaders.
Oba Adejugbe acknowledged the good intentions behind the panel’s formation but argued that the current climate in the country made its operation inappropriate. He expressed concerns that allowing such a panel could set a precedent for other religious groups to form similar bodies, potentially leading to conflicts.
“After discussing the matter with the Chief Imam and other stakeholders, I emphasized that the founding fathers of the mosque had been resolving disputes without a formal committee, and I advised a return to that tradition. The Ewi-in-Council, along with the people of Ado-Ekiti, have collectively decided that the panel should be dissolved immediately,” he stated.
However, the Irepodun Muslim Community, in an emergency meeting led by its Chairman, Alhaji Adebomojo Tiamiyu, rejected the directive, calling it an overreach of the monarch’s authority. They argued that the Independent Shari’ah Panel is a state-wide institution established by Ekiti Muslims and is not subject to the jurisdiction of the Ewi-in-Council.
The community reaffirmed their allegiance to the League of Imams and Alfas in the South West, Edo, and Delta States, as well as the Ekiti State Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, led by Alhaji Dr. H. A. Bakare.
They also called for peace and unity, urging all parties to avoid actions that could disrupt religious harmony in the state. Furthermore, they expressed appreciation for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s inclusive leadership while cautioning him to be vigilant against divisive influences.
Resolutions from the Irepodun Muslim Community Meeting:
- Rejection of the Ban: The community strongly condemned the directive to dissolve the Shari’ah arbitration panel, stating that it lacks legal backing. They emphasized that the panel is a state-wide initiative, not limited to Ado-Ekiti.
- Abuse of Power: The group accused the Ewi-in-Council of overstepping its authority, asserting that no external entity has the right to interfere in the internal affairs of the Muslim community.
- Affirmation of Leadership: They reiterated their loyalty to the leadership of the League of Imams and Alfas, as well as the Ekiti State Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs.
- Commitment to Peace: The Muslim community emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and harmony in Ekiti State and urged all stakeholders to work towards unity.
- Support for the Governor: They commended Governor Oyebanji’s inclusive governance and urged him to remain alert against attempts to incite religious discord.
The meeting was attended by several prominent Muslim leaders across Ekiti State, including representatives from various local Muslim communities. These leaders collectively reinforced their stance against the monarch’s directive and pledged to uphold the integrity of the Shari’ah panel.
