Yoruba Monarch Endorses Sharia Law In Southwest Amid Public Controversy
The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, has voiced his support for the implementation of Sharia law in Nigeria’s South-West, asserting that it aligns with longstanding Yoruba traditions.
This endorsement follows plans to inaugurate a Sharia council in Oyo State, initially scheduled for January 11, 2025, but indefinitely postponed due to public backlash.
Speaking to Punch, Oba Akanbi emphasized that Sharia law has been a part of Iwo’s history for over a century, citing the presence of a Sharia college in the town. “It’s the right of Muslims to choose between customary law or the high court,” he noted.
The monarch highlighted the region’s adoption of Sharia-compliant banking systems and reminded the public that Sharia law is recognized in Nigeria’s constitution. He clarified that its application is limited to Muslims and focuses on personal matters such as inheritance, marriage, and divorce, which he argued are sometimes misunderstood under Western legal frameworks.
Oba Akanbi assured that Sharia law does not infringe upon the rights of non-Muslims, a point that has not quelled the ongoing debate. Critics, including traditional leaders, have warned that the proposal could jeopardize the region’s longstanding harmony and inclusivity.
The controversy underscores the tension between tradition, religion, and public perception, as the South-West grapples with the potential implications of this legal framework.
