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Ekiti MSSN condemns suspension of Shari’a Panel
… Says It’s religious intolerance
The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Ekiti State Area Unit, has expressed profound dismay over the decision by the Ewi-in-Council to suspend the operations of the Independent Shari’a Arbitration Panel.
This panel, established by the leadership of the Muslim community with the involvement of key stakeholders in the state, was designed to promote peaceful conflict resolution among Muslims.
According to a statement issued by Amir, MSSN Ekiti State Area Unit Engr. Jimoh Owonifari Kareem, suspension is viewed by the MSSN as a glaring display of hostility towards Islam and Muslims in Ekiti State.
“It is unfortunate that certain influential figures, including the Attorney General, appear to have been swayed by baseless social media commentary, propagated by individuals with questionable motives.
“The decision to act on misinformation and misrepresentation not only tarnishes the dignity of Muslims in the state but also constitutes an act of grave injustice and oppression.
Several arbitration panels operate freely across Ekiti State, many of which are openly promoted on radio and television, without facing similar condemnation.
The MSSN questions why the Ewi-in-Council and the State Attorney General have remained silent on these panels, yet singled out the Shari’a Arbitration Panel.
“This action is a direct affront to the office of the President General of the League of Imams and Alfas in Yoruba Land, Edo, and Delta States, a revered figure from Ekiti State who has consistently championed peace and coexistence among all faiths.
The insinuation that this respected leader could instigate chaos is both insulting to his office and deeply offensive to the Muslim community across Yoruba Land.
It is important to emphasise that the Shari’a Arbitration Panel is solely intended to resolve disputes among willing Muslims, guided by Islamic principles.
Its mission is to provide a peaceful platform for conflict resolution, fostering unity, understanding, and adherence to Islamic ethics. Claims that the panel threatens the state are baseless and appear to mask a subtle but persistent prejudice against Islam and Muslims.
“The establishment of the Shari’a panel was a source of immense joy for the MSSN Ekiti State Area Unit. Since the creation of Ekiti State, the MSSN has steadfastly adhered to Shari’a principles in all its activities, which has significantly contributed to harmonious coexistence and progress.
This commitment is evident in the society’s success in operating schools and economic empowerment initiatives based on non-interest financial principles.
These schools, which uphold moral and ethical standards in line with Shari’a, have even attracted non-Muslims eager to enrol their children.
Additionally, the MSSN has long adhered to Shari’a principles in matters of burial rites, ensuring that deceased members are laid to rest in accordance with Islamic teachings in Muslim cemeteries. These practices have neither infringed on the rights of others nor caused disruption in the state.
As a law-abiding organisation, the MSSN Ekiti State Area Unit remains resolute in its commitment to Shari’a principles. Any attempt to obstruct its practices or deny fundamental religious rights will be strongly resisted through all lawful means.
The society views such actions as deliberate attempts to stifle its progress and undermine the development of future generations.
The Shari’a Arbitration Panel, established under the leadership of past administrations, has a proven track record of resolving marital and other disputes among Muslims, promoting peace, unity, and professional growth within the community.
“By Allah’s will, the Shari’a Arbitration Panel will continue to function as an integral part of the MSSN Ekiti State Area Unit.
The society firmly asserts that no individual or group has the right to hinder its practice of faith.
