Oloyede advocates establishment of Sharia Court of Appeal in S’West

The Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof Ishaq Oloyede, has canvassed the establishment of a Sharia Court of Appeal in the western part of the country.

He stated that the growing population of Muslims in that part of the country needed the services of the court for fairness.

Oloyede appealed at a three-day conference of the League of Imam and Alfas in Yoruba, Edo and Delta in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

He noted that the fragmentation and disunity among Muslim communities had significantly hampered the ability to advocate effectively for their rights and interests, leading to alleged political marginalisation and socio-economic inequalities.

He also drew attention to the responsibilities that come with leadership, encouraging scholars and community leaders to guide the Muslim Ummah with wisdom and empathy.

The don urged the audience to rise above doctrinal, ideological, and social differences, noting that the Muslim faith teaches the importance of solidarity.

He stressed the need for open dialogue to address differences constructively, rather than through confrontation or antagonism, warning that continued fragmentation would only weaken the community.

Oloyede also noted that lack of cohesive political representation is one of the key consequences of disunity, observing that fragmented Muslim communities are less capable of advocating policies that reflect their needs and aspirations.

He also addressed the challenges posed by internal divisions within the Muslim community, particularly the fragmentation of Islamic scholarship and the decline of traditional centres of learning.

President General of the League of Imam and Alfas, Fadilat Sheik JamiuKewulere, called for unity, cooperation, and mutual understanding among all Muslim groups.

He noted that only unity among Muslims would foster development.