The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has strongly opposed the push to introduce Sharia law in the Southwest, warning that such a move is a direct threat to the region’s cultural and religious identity.
Speaking at the 2025 Oodua Festival held at Enuwa Square in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Adams declared that Yoruba land would resist any attempt to impose Islamic legal principles that are not in line with the region’s traditional values.
According to him, the call for Sharia law in the Southwest is being driven by extremists who are seeking to create division and unrest.
“Sharia law has no place in Yoruba culture. It is alien to our beliefs and traditions, and we must not allow religious fanatics to use it as a tool to destabilize our land,” Adams stated firmly.
“Nigeria is Not an Islamic State”
Drawing a comparison between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, Adams emphasized that the latter is an Islamic kingdom where Sharia is part of the religious system, whereas Nigeria operates under a secular constitution.
“Saudi Arabia is a nation where Sharia law is in line with the people’s faith. It works for them because their system is built around it,” he explained.
“However, Nigeria is a secular nation where the constitution guarantees freedom of religion. No group should try to impose a religious legal system on others. Yoruba people have their own customs, and we will not be forced into adopting laws that are foreign to us.”
Security Threat in the Southwest
Beyond the issue of Sharia, Adams also raised concerns about the growing presence of the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the Southwest, warning that the influx of extremist groups poses a serious security risk to the region.
He urged both the federal and state governments to take urgent measures to prevent the spread of terrorism and maintain peace in Yoruba land.
“ISWAP and other terror groups have been infiltrating our communities, and this should not be taken lightly. The authorities must intensify efforts to root them out before it is too late,” he warned.
OPC Ready to Defend Yoruba Land
As the leader of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), Adams reaffirmed the group’s commitment to protecting Yoruba land against threats of extremism and insecurity. He called for collaboration between security agencies and local vigilante groups to strengthen the region’s defense.
“The OPC is ready to work with other security outfits to keep our land safe. We cannot afford to let external influences destroy the peace and stability we have fought hard to maintain,” he declared.
Adams’ remarks come at a time when Nigeria is grappling with multiple security challenges, including insurgency in the North, banditry in the Northwest, and increasing concerns about extremism spreading to the Southwest.