Muslims Mark 20 Years Of Shari’a In Osun

Muslims in Osun State have commemorated the 20th anniversary of Shari’a legal system in the state.

The commemoration featured various events including public lectures, presentation of publications of published judgements of the Shari’a Panel and awards to those that contributed to the establishment Shari’a system in the state.

The Osun State Independent Shari’a Panel was established by Osun State Muslim Community and it has successfully handled cases involving inheritance, marital disputes and imamship conflicts in the state.

The Chairman of the Shari’a Panel, Professor Abdul Fatai Makinde said the Shari’a legal system has contributed significantly to justice system in the state over the last 20 years.

Makinde expressed worry that the state government has not given official recognition to the Shari’a Panel despite its importance.

The President of the Osun State Muslim Community, Alhaji Mustafa Olawuyi expressed concern over what he describes as widespread misconceptions about the Shari’a legal system in the state.

He said many non-Muslims have a wrong perception of Shari’a law, a situation he believes has hindered the acceptance and official recognition of the panel by the state government.

Olawuyi called for greater public understanding of Shari’a law, insisting that it is a voluntary legal framework for Muslims in matters of personal and family law.

The Registrar of Osun State Independent Shari’a Panel and Chief Imam of Telemu, Sheikh Musa Raji also said misconceptions surrounding the Shari’a legal system are largely responsible for the lack of formal recognition.

The Guest Speaker at the 20th anniversary of Osun State Independent Shari’a Panel, Dr. AbdulHakeem Abdullateef urged state governments across Nigeria to allow the establishment of Shari’a panels where Muslim communities desire them.

He highlighted the benefits Shari’a legal system to the society and explained that Shari’a court would only complement existing legal mechanisms rather than replace them.

Abdullateef therefore appealed for dialogue, public enlightenment and greater understanding to address misconceptions about the Shari’a legal system.