Oyo Islamic Group Denies Plans For Sharia Court

An Islamic organization in Oyo State has clarified that it is not planning to establish a Sharia Court in the region, despite recent speculations.

The group, which is affiliated with the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, explained that it is setting up an Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel in Oyo town and its surrounding areas. This panel is intended solely to handle family disputes among consenting Muslims and does not have the authority to enforce any rulings.

The organization issued a statement to clear up confusion, particularly following a miscommunication that led some to believe a Sharia Court was being established in the region. According to Dr. Bello Adisa, the Committee Chairman, the panel was meant to settle disputes voluntarily agreed to by Muslims, and it is not a court of law. The organization also announced that the planned inauguration of the panel, originally set for January 11, 2025, has been postponed, with a new date to be announced.

The statement stressed that the arbitration panel, which has been operating in other South-West states, was mistakenly referred to as a “Sharia Court” in a flyer circulating the region. The flyer invited attendees to a ceremony for a “Sharia Court,” which sparked significant public backlash, particularly from social media users who questioned the move in the largely Yoruba-speaking and culturally distinct South-West.

In response to the growing controversy, Imam Daud Igi Ogun of the Khadimul Muslimeen of Oyo Kingdom issued a statement on behalf of the Oyo Muslim community, confirming that the event would be delayed and explaining that the organization’s efforts were in line with the peaceful teachings of Islam.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, also commented on the situation, emphasizing his commitment to upholding the laws of the country. He stated, “Regarding 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; if not, they should expect that I will insist the law must be followed.”

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