Prominent leaders of pan-Yoruba groups, representing a cross-section of artisans, workers, students, professionals, and self-determination advocates, have united to reject the proposed introduction of Sharia Law in Yorubaland.
In a statement jointly signed by 29 Yoruba groups, including the Alliance for Yoruba Democratic Movements, O’odua Nationalist Coalition, and South West Professional Forum, the leaders expressed concern over what they termed as a deliberate attempt to destabilize Yorubaland.
While acknowledging Islam’s contributions to education, health, and welfare in the region since the 14th century, they strongly opposed the imposition of Sharia law in a multi-religious and culturally diverse area like the South-West.
The statement read, “We recognize the constitutional right to freedom of speech and faith, which has been part of Yoruba civilization for nearly 2,000 years. However, we oppose the introduction of Sharia law by a small group with external support, as it does not align with our collective heritage or the secular development of Yorubaland.”
The groups highlighted the economic and cultural achievements of Yorubaland, crediting hard work and religious coexistence, rather than theocratic governance, for the region’s development.
They further accused proponents of Sharia law of attempting to destabilize the South-West for political and electoral gain.
Background of the Controversy
Tensions began in December 2024 when a flier from the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria announced plans to inaugurate a Sharia court in Oyo State on January 11, 2025. The announcement sparked widespread backlash, leading the council to postpone the event indefinitely.
In response, the chairman of the council’s committee, Dr. Bello Adisa, clarified that the proposed panel was intended only to resolve family disputes among consenting Muslims and was not a formal court.
Local and Traditional Authorities Intervene
In Ado Ekiti, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, ordered the dissolution of a Sharia panel recently established at the Central Mosque in the town. The monarch emphasized that the move was necessary to preserve peace and unity in the community.
“The mood of the nation does not support such a committee now,” Oba Adejugbe said. “The panel stands dissolved in the interest of peaceful coexistence and law and order.”
The Chief Imam of Ado Ekiti, Sheik Jamiu Kewulere, also addressed the issue, explaining that the committee was created to handle internal inheritance and marriage disputes among Muslims. He dismissed claims of ulterior motives, emphasizing the harmonious relationship between Muslims and other religious groups in the region.
State Government Position
The Ekiti State government has reiterated that the existing legal framework in the state does not recognize Sharia Courts or Arbitration Panels. Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General Dayo Apata (SAN) clarified that any attempt to establish such panels without legal backing was invalid.
As tensions subside, many Yoruba leaders continue to emphasize the importance of unity and coexistence in preserving the region’s stability
