Traditional leaders in Nigeria’s South West have issued strong warnings against any attempts to introduce Sharia law in the region, citing concerns over potential anarchy, division, and instability. The leaders stated that Sharia law, in any form, is unsuitable for Yorubaland, emphasizing the need for unity and peace in the region.
The warning comes in light of a controversial flier that went viral, inviting attendees to the inauguration of a Sharia court set for January 11, 2025, at the Muslim Community Islamic Centre in Oyo. The flier listed key figures in the Muslim community, including the Bashorun of Oyo Land, High Chief Yusuf Akinade Olayinka I, and the Mufairu of Oyo Land, Alhaji Abdullateef Eleyele, as part of the event.
This development has sparked widespread criticism, with many Nigerians asserting that Sharia law is incompatible with the predominantly Christian and diverse South-Western region, where Muslims form a minority.
In 2021, Bishop Wale Oke, President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), had also cautioned the Senate against covert attempts to impose Sharia law during the ongoing constitutional review. However, Muslim leaders, such as Ishaq Akintola of the Muslim Rights Concern, have defended the right of Muslims to operate Sharia law.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde addressed the issue, stating that while people are free to pursue their actions within the law, he remains committed to upholding the Nigerian Constitution and ensuring that all legal procedures are followed.