Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reassured Muslims in the state that he does not oppose the establishment of Sharia panels, allowing those who wish to utilize them for dispute resolution to do so. He also emphasized that he has no plans to challenge the constitutionality of the Sharia court’s operations in Oyo State.
This statement was made in a release on Thursday by his media aide, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, following remarks made by the governor at the 2025 Iftar event hosted by the state government at the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
The event marked the sixth edition of the Iftar hosted since Makinde assumed office in 2019.
On Monday, Dr. Rafiu Bello, the Chairman of the Sharia Committee of Oyo Land, announced the establishment of a Sharia panel in Oyo town, which had already begun sittings. In response, Olanrewaju reiterated Makinde’s position from earlier in January, which stated that the Sharia court’s operation in the state would only proceed in alignment with the 1999 Constitution.
He further noted that the state may seek legal clarity from the court if needed.
However, during the Iftar programme, Governor Makinde clarified that he had no intention of going to court, reiterating that the Sharia panels are welcome to operate in the state. He suggested that the panels could serve as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism, easing the workload on the formal judicial system.
Nonetheless, he affirmed that the constitutional court remains the ultimate authority in resolving legal disputes.
Makinde emphasized, “I have seen reports suggesting that I would go to court over the ongoing Sharia panel in Oyo, but that is not my stance. We will support what is in line with our Constitution.
I’ve also spoken with Muslim leaders from southwestern Nigeria, stressing the importance of unity and discouraging any actions that could sow division.”
The governor further explained that, similar to resolving family disagreements through elders rather than court action, individuals who prefer to use the Sharia panel as an alternative to formal legal proceedings are free to do so.
He added that this would help alleviate the burden on judges. However, should any matter require enforcement or further clarity, the formal court system would still apply, as mandated by the Constitution.
Makinde emphasized his administration’s commitment to religious harmony and unity within the state, vowing not to allow anyone to stoke religious discord for political gain.
Reflecting on his administration’s progress, the governor urged vigilance as the state approaches the next election, warning that some may seek to exploit divisions for electoral purposes.
He assured the people that his administration prioritizes long-term development, citing the decision to undertake extensive road rehabilitation to ensure durable infrastructure for the next several decades.
Makinde also expressed his gratitude to the Muslim community in the state for their prayers, support, and cooperation, which he believes have contributed to the state’s ongoing progress. He extended thanks to the state legislature, judiciary, and security services for their contributions to the state’s growth and safety.
In his Iftar lecture, the Chief Imam of the Oyo State Government House Mosque, Adebayo Rufai, praised Governor Makinde for his dedication to the people of the state, particularly during Ramadan, and prayed for divine rewards for his efforts.
The event also featured a speech by the Chairman of the occasion, Bayo Oyero, who thanked the governor for organizing the sixth Iftar since taking office and for his continued support of the Muslim community in Oyo State.
Additionally, in their goodwill messages, Oyo State Muslim Community Secretary, Alhaji Abidemi Siyanbade, and Professor Rasheed Aderinoye commended the governor for allocating land for the reconstruction of the late Rashidi Adesokan Mosque, which had been affected by the Premier Hotel reconstruction in Ibadan.
In his vote of thanks, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal lauded Makinde’s leadership and expressed appreciation to all arms of government for their cooperation.
The Iftar event was attended by various prominent figures, including former Governor Oba Rashidi Ladoja, former Deputy Governor Taofeek Arapaja, former Deputy Governor Hamid Gbadamosi,
Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly Adebo Ogundoyin (represented by Deputy Speaker Mohammed Fadeyi), and many other dignitaries from the state and judiciary.
