Makinde Vows to Uphold Constitution Over Sharia Court in Oyo

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reiterated his commitment to upholding the Nigerian Constitution in response to discussions about the proposed establishment of a Sharia Court in Oyo Town. 

Addressing the issue in a video seen by our reporter, the governor emphasized that while groups may pursue initiatives like the Sharia Court, such actions must strictly comply with the law.

“About the establishment of a Sharia Court in Oyo Town, people may try, but for us, I swore to uphold our laws and the Constitution of Nigeria. If their actions are within the law, fine, but if not, they should expect that I will insist the law must be followed,” Makinde stated.

The controversy began when the Oyo State chapter of the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria announced plans to inaugurate a Sharia Court in Oyo town and its environs by January 2025. A flyer publicizing the event went viral on X (formerly Twitter), sparking mixed reactions.

While some expressed support, others criticized the plan, arguing that introducing a Sharia Court in the South-West—a region known for its religious and cultural diversity—could undermine the harmonious coexistence of various faiths.

Opposition to the court highlighted concerns about its potential to disrupt the region's secular nature. “The South-West is a region where no single faith dominates. Any attempt to impose one system of religious jurisprudence risks unsettling the balance we’ve maintained for years,” noted one critic on social media.

Amid the backlash, the Khadimul Muslimeen of Oyo Kingdom, Imam Daud Igi Ogun, announced an indefinite postponement of the court’s inauguration. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Imam Ogun said, “We have decided to delay the unveiling of the Sharia Court in the interest of peace and to allow for further dialogue with all stakeholders.”

Governor Makinde’s intervention underscores his administration’s stance on ensuring all actions align with the law. His comments have been viewed as a balanced approach to preserving Oyo State’s legal framework while respecting religious freedoms.