The University of Lagos Muslim Alumni will host a public lecture on Sunday, February 23, 2025, to provide insights into the ongoing debate over the adoption of Shari’ah arbitration panels as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism for Muslims in the South-West.
At a press conference on Tuesday at the UNILAG Mosque Conference Centre, UMA President, Dr. Mumuni Alao, announced that the lecture—featuring topics such as “Islam at the Intersection of Humanity and Religion” and “Shari’ah in South-West Nigeria”—will be part of the association’s 30th annual pre-Ramadan programme, themed “The Transformative Power of Ramadan.”
The event, set to begin at 10 a.m. at the J.F. Ajayi Auditorium, UNILAG, will have Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, deliver the keynote address, while former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdul’aziz Yari, will chair the occasion.
The Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, will serve as the chief host, while the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Saka Adeola Matemilola, will be the Royal Father of the Day.
The introduction of Shari’ah arbitration as an ADR mechanism has sparked significant debate, with some South-West governors opposing it, while others argue that similar frameworks already exist in the region.
Speaking at the press conference, Alao encouraged Nigerians from all backgrounds to attend the lecture, stressing that it would help dispel misconceptions about Shari’ah arbitration.
He also announced that two distinguished legal scholars—Prof. Mashood Baderin of the University of London, an expert in Islamic law and international human rights law, and Justice Abdur-Raheem Ahmad Sayi of the Shari’ah Court of Appeal, Ilorin—will educate the public on the subject.
“Over the past few weeks, this issue has gained prominence, particularly following developments in Ekiti State, where a traditional ruler purportedly ‘banned’ the establishment of a Shari’ah Arbitration Panel for willing Muslims in his domain,” Alao stated.
He emphasised that the UMA Pre-Ramadan Lecture has become a major annual event in Lagos and South-West Nigeria, with a significant place in UNILAG’s academic calendar.
“This 30th-anniversary edition promises to be rewarding for all attendees as we prepare to welcome the holy month of Ramadan. We look forward to receiving everyone at the University of Lagos on February 23, 2025,” he added.
