is baffling to witness the Islamophobia that often arises from certain quarters in the southwestern part of Nigeria, especially when it comes to issues like hijab or, more recently, the Shariah arbitration sitting in Oyo. This reaction seems unwarranted, especially considering that the Nigerian Constitution explicitly guarantees freedom of religion and association.
Why is there such uproar whenever Muslims try to exercise their constitutionally protected rights? Why should my wife, sister, or daughter be subjected to hostility for simply wearing hijab—a personal and religious choice that is not forced upon anyone? Let us be fair and just!
WHAT IS THE SHARIAH ARBITRATION SITTING?
The arbitration panel being unveiled in Oyo State is not a Shariah court but rather an arbitration sitting, akin to other family arbitration bodies such as those in Lagos or the well-known Agidigbo arbitration (“Kokoro Alate”. The only difference is that this arbitration panel will operate according to Islamic principles and will cater exclusively to Muslims.
This initiative poses no threat to anyone’s rights or beliefs, as it is entirely voluntary and limited to Muslims. Such arbitration panels are entirely legal and protected under the Nigerian Constitution.
MISCONCEPTIONS DEBUNKED
1. “It’s a Shariah court.”
– No, it is not a Shariah court. It is an arbitration panel that provides mediation and resolution of family disputes based on Islamic tenets.
2. “It’s a new idea.”
– This is false. Arbitration panels guided by Islamic principles are not new in Oyo State. Similar panels have existed in Ibadan, Ogbomoso, and other parts of the Country for years.
3. “It will Islamize Oyo State.”
– This is baseless fear-mongering. The panel is exclusively for Muslims and does not affect anyone outside the faith. It does not impose Islamic principles on non-Muslims or interfere with the state’s secular governance.
WHY THIS SHOULDN’T BE AN ISSUE
Muslims in Oyo State have every right to exercise their religious beliefs and establish such an arbitration panel. It is designed to benefit society by preventing divorces, mediating family disputes, and fostering harmony within Muslim homes. These are positive contributions to the community, not threats.
We must be fair and respectful in our dealings with people of different faiths. Just as other groups have their own platforms for conflict resolution, Muslims in Oyo deserve the same rights without undue criticism or fear.
Let us uphold justice and constitutional rights by supporting peaceful and constructive initiatives like this arbitration sitting. It is a step towards strengthening societal harmony and respecting the diversity that defines us as Nigerians.
