Pan-Yoruba Groups Reject Move To Introduce Sharia Law In Southwest, Warn Against Divisive Agenda
Prominent pan-Yoruba groups representing various sectors, including artisans, traders, students, professionals, and self-determination advocates, have united to oppose the proposed introduction of Sharia Law in the Southwest region of Nigeria.
In a joint statement signed by leaders of 29 Yoruba organizations—including the Alliance for Yoruba Democratic Movements, O’odua Nationalist Coalition, South West Professional Forum, and the Federation for Yoruba Consciousness and Culture—the groups condemned the proposal as a deliberate attempt to destabilize Yorubaland through divisive agendas.
While acknowledging Islam’s historical contributions to education, health, and welfare in Yorubaland since the 14th century, the groups firmly opposed any attempt to impose Sharia law on the region, which is known for its multi-religious harmony.
The statement read:
“We recognize the right to debate and express views as guaranteed by Nigeria’s constitution and Yoruba tradition. However, the introduction of Sharia cannot address the socio-economic and cultural challenges in Yorubaland, a region built on the hard work and unity of people from diverse religious backgrounds.”
The groups emphasized that Sharia law is not feasible in a multi-faith society like Yorubaland, stating that it is primarily suited for regions where Islam is the dominant religion.
The controversy began in December 2024 after the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria announced plans to inaugurate a Sharia court in Oyo State on January 11, 2025. This sparked widespread backlash, leading the Islamic council to postpone the inauguration indefinitely.
In response, Dr. Bello Adisa, a representative of the council, clarified that the proposed panel was intended as an arbitration body to resolve family disputes among consenting Muslims, not as a formal court. However, the explanation did little to ease concerns.
In Ado Ekiti, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, dissolved a Sharia panel established at the Central Mosque following a meeting with community leaders, the Chief Imam, and Muslim representatives. The monarch emphasized the importance of maintaining the region’s long-standing religious harmony.
“The nation’s mood does not support such a committee at this time. We have resolved that the panel be dissolved to preserve peace and unity,” Oba Adejugbe stated.
The Ekiti State government also weighed in, with Attorney General Dayo Apata (SAN) affirming that the state’s legal framework does not recognize Sharia courts or arbitration panels.
Yoruba groups have vowed to resist any attempts to introduce Sharia law in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, and other states in the Southwest, warning against external influences seeking to disrupt the region’s peace.
The coalition reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the rights and unity of the Yoruba people, stressing that any attempt to impose Sharia law would undermine the democratic and cultural foundations of the region.
