The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has condemned the recent directive by the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, to dissolve the Ekiti State Shari’ah Panel, describing it as a violation of constitutional rights and an attempt to curtail the religious freedoms of Muslims in the state.
In a press statement released today, MPAC expressed strong opposition to the order, asserting that it contravenes Section 38(i) and (ii) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantees freedom of religion.
“This move is not only draconian but also alien to democratic norms and global best practices,” said MPAC Executive Chairman, Disu Kamor.
The group emphasized that Shari’ah panels, which consist of Islamic scholars, provided voluntary mediation and resolution of marriage and inheritance disputes within the Muslim community. MPAC clarified that these panels do not operate as courts and do not impose rulings on non-Muslims, thus posing no threat to the secular judicial system.
Drawing comparisons to practices in countries like the United Kingdom and Canada, where Shari’ah councils and panels function alongside existing legal frameworks, MPAC called for the protection of religious freedom in Ekiti State and beyond.
“We will not tolerate any impunity by leaders who disregard the rule of law and attempt to subjugate the Muslim community. The Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, and this right must be upheld,” the statement read.
The organization therefore called on the Ekiti State Government, the Federal Government, human rights organizations, and the international community to intervene, urged them to safeguard the constitutional rights of Muslims in the state.
MPAC reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the rights of Muslims and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria while urging authorities to respect and uphold religious freedoms.
For further information, contact:
Disu Kamor
Executive Chairman, MPAC
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.mpac-ng.org
