- Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, affirms that Sharia panels can function in the state as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism
- The governor clarifies that he has no plans to challenge the constitutionality of the Sharia panel in court
- Makinde emphasises the need to avoid religious discord and rejects attempts to use religion for political gains
The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has clarified that he is not opposed to the operation of Shariah panels in the state, stating that those who wish to resolve disputes through the panel are free to do so.
He also dismissed any intention of challenging the constitutionality of the Sharia panel in court.
Makinde made these remarks on Wednesday, March 26, during the 2025 Iftar programme organised by the state government at the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
This year’s event marked the sixth edition of the annual Iftar since he assumed office in 2019.
Earlier in the week, the Chairman of the Shariah Committee of Oyo Land, Dr. Rafiu Bello, confirmed that a Shariah panel had been established in Oyo town and had already commenced sittings.
Reacting to concerns about its legality, Makinde’s media aide, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, reiterated that the governor's stance aligns with the 1999 Constitution, stating that any judicial process in the state must comply with constitutional provisions.
However, at the Iftar gathering, Makinde clarified his position, emphasising that Shariah panels could serve as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism to ease the burden on conventional courts.
“I read in the newspaper that I planned to go to court over the Sharia panel in Oyo, but that is not my position.
“My stance is simple: We will support anything that aligns with the Constitution. Even within families, not every issue is taken to court. Elders mediate disputes. Likewise, those who choose to patronise the Sharia panel as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism are free to do so,” Makinde stated
The governor assured that while the Shariah panel could help reduce the number of cases reaching judges, only the constitutionally recognised courts can enforce rulings where necessary.
Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to religious harmony and warned against elements trying to exploit religious sentiments for political gains.
“As we approach the next election, some people will attempt to create division for their own political benefit. But this administration focuses on the next generation, not just the next election,” he said.
Reflecting on his government’s development initiatives, he highlighted road rehabilitation projects, noting that past administrations often relied on temporary fixes, but his government opted for long-term solutions that would last at least 30 years.
The governor thanked the Muslim community for their continued support and prayers, acknowledging their role in the state’s progress.
He also expressed appreciation to the legislature, judiciary, and security agencies for their contributions to maintaining stability in Oyo State.
Iftar lecture and recognition
During the event, Chief Imam of the Oyo State Government House Mosque, Adebayo Rufai, delivered a lecture, commending Makinde’s dedication and goodwill towards the people.
He prayed for divine rewards for the governor’s charitable acts, especially during Ramadan.
The Chairman of the occasion, Bayo Oyero, lauded Makinde for consistently organising the annual Iftar, while Alhaji Abidemi Siyanbade, Secretary of the Oyo State Muslim Community, and Prof. Rasheed Aderinoye praised the governor for allocating land for the reconstruction of the Rashidi Adesokan Mosque, which was affected by the Premier Hotel reconstruction project.
In his vote of thanks, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal commended Makinde’s leadership qualities and acknowledged the cooperation between different arms of government in the state.
Dignitaries in attendance
The event was attended by notable figures, including:
- Former Governor and Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja
- PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Taofeek Arapaja
- Former Deputy Governor, Hamid Gbadamosi
- Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin (represented by Deputy Speaker Mohammed Fadeyi)
- Justice Iyabo Yerima, Chief Judge of Oyo State (represented by Justice R.B. Akintola)
- Justice Tajudeen Abdulganiyu, President of the Customary Court of Appeal
- Olubunmi Oni, Head of Service
Other attendees included lawmakers, government officials, and religious leaders who all commended the governor’s commitment to peace and development in the state.
Ekiti government rejects Sharia law, reaffirms commitment to existing legal system
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Ekiti State Government clarified that the state's legal framework does not recognise a Shariah Court or an Independent Shariah Arbitration Panel.
The statement was issued by the state’s Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Dayo Apata, on Thursday, January 23, in response to reports about the inaugural public sitting of the Ekiti State Shari’ah Panel, which reportedly resolved two marriage disputes.