Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has made it clear that his government will not allow the establishment of a Shariah court in the state, asserting that the Nigerian Constitution is the supreme law of the land. His statement comes in response to a recent push by a group advocating for the creation of a Shariah court in Oyo State, a proposal that has sparked a public debate over the role of religion in the state’s governance.
In a video statement posted on social media platform X and widely shared by news outlets, Makinde emphasized his unwavering commitment to upholding the secular nature of Nigeria’s legal system, as enshrined in the nation’s Constitution.
“The law of the land is the Constitution of Nigeria, and that is what I swore to protect and defend,” Makinde declared. “People may have different opinions or desires, but in Oyo State, our guiding principle is the Constitution. We cannot entertain any proposals that go against the secular nature of our nation.”
The governor’s comments come amid reports that the Oyo State chapter of the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria had announced plans to establish a Shariah court in the state. The council, a religious group advocating for the establishment of Islamic law-based judicial systems in various parts of Nigeria, circulated a flier inviting citizens to attend the inaugural ceremony of the proposed court.
The event was initially scheduled to take place on January 11, 2025, at the Muslim Community Islamic Centre in Oyo town. However, shortly after the announcement, the inauguration was postponed indefinitely, though no official reason was provided. Despite this, the controversy surrounding the proposed court has continued to draw attention.
Makinde’s response to the controversy highlights the broader challenge of balancing Nigeria’s diverse religious and cultural practices with its commitment to secular governance.
Oyo State, home to a diverse population with both Muslim and Christian communities, has long been at the forefront of debates surrounding religious influence in governance. While Islamic groups like the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria have expressed their desire to establish a Shariah court in the state, it remains a contentious issue.
During a recent interview, Makinde reiterated his position, stating, “I am not against religion or the right of any individual or group to practice their faith. However, as a public official, my primary responsibility is to ensure that the law of the land is respected and followed by everyone. In Oyo State, no religious law will take precedence over the Constitution.”
The proposed Shariah court has not only sparked legal debates but has also raised concerns about its potential impact on interfaith relationships in Oyo State. Some critics have expressed fear that the establishment of such a court could lead to religious polarization, further dividing communities that have lived together peacefully for generations.
In his video address, Makinde made it clear that while the government will respect individuals’ rights to practice their faith, any attempts to introduce religious law in conflict with the secular Constitution would not be tolerated. He stressed, “If they are within the law, fine. But if their actions are not in line with the Constitution, they should expect that I will insist on the law being followed.”
The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, which has advocated for Shariah courts in several states, has not issued a public statement in response to Makinde’s comments. However, many of its supporters have expressed disappointment, accusing the governor of failing to recognize the rights of Muslims to seek a judicial system based on their religious principles.
On social media, the debate has been polarized, with some defending Makinde’s position as a necessary defense of Nigeria’s secular identity, while others argue that the proposal for a Shariah court reflects the legitimate desire of Muslims for a legal system that aligns with their faith.
In his address, Makinde also pointed out that any attempt to implement laws contrary to the Constitution would be met with legal resistance. “We will not allow any individual or group to undermine the unity and integrity of Nigeria through actions that are incompatible with the Constitution,” he emphasized.
The controversy over the proposed Shariah court in Oyo State is part of a larger conversation about the role of religion in Nigerian governance. Since Nigeria’s independence, the country has struggled with balancing its diverse religious and cultural identities with the principles of secular governance. The introduction of Shariah law in some northern states has already sparked intense debates, and now the idea of establishing Shariah courts in the southwest region is reigniting similar tensions.
Makinde’s recent statements reflect his administration’s commitment to the rule of law and the Constitution. As Oyo State continues to grapple with this contentious issue, the governor’s stance serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding national unity and the secular ideals upon which the Nigerian state was founded.
“The Constitution is clear,” Makinde concluded in his video. “It is the supreme law of Nigeria, and as the governor of Oyo State, I will continue to ensure that it is upheld above all else.”
