By Gbenga John.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has voiced his support for the establishment of Sharia arbitration panels in Ekiti and Oyo states, igniting a debate about the place of Sharia law in the Southwest. The Sultan, who leads the Nigeria Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), expressed concern over what he perceives as intolerance towards Muslims in the region, citing the denial of Sharia Courts of Appeal as a constitutional right.
The NSCIA, in a statement by its Deputy National Legal Adviser, Haroun Eze, lamented the resistance to the proposed panels, which are intended to resolve civil and marital disputes among consenting Muslims. The Sultan argued that these panels are necessary due to the perceived failure of Southwest political leaders to establish Sharia courts, despite the region’s significant Muslim population. He also pointed to issues like the hijab controversy as examples of obstacles faced by Muslims practicing their faith.
However, Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, strongly opposed the introduction of Sharia in the Southwest, deeming it alien to Yoruba culture and religious beliefs. Speaking at the 2025 Oodua festival in Ile-Ife, Adams emphasized Nigeria’s secular constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion.
He drew a distinction between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the latter’s status as an Islamic kingdom where Sharia is widely accepted. “Sharia law is alien to our culture and religious beliefs in Yoruba land,” Adams stated, urging against actions that could destabilize the region.
Adams also raised concerns about the increasing presence of ISWAP in the Southwest, calling on federal and state governments to bolster security efforts. He offered the support of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) in collaborating with other security groups to combat the threat.
