Governor Seyi Makinde Addresses Sharia Court Proposal, Reaffirms Commitment to Nigerian Constitution

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has responded to concerns over plans to establish a Sharia court in Oyo Town, emphasizing his administration’s dedication to upholding the Nigerian Constitution.

The governor’s remarks followed reports that the Oyo State branch of the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria intended to inaugurate a Sharia court in the state. A widely circulated flier had announced the court’s inauguration for January 11, 2025, at the Muslim Community Islamic Centre in Oyo Town. However, the event has now been postponed indefinitely.

In a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Olorundare Olamide, the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on New Media, Makinde made it clear that while individuals and groups are free to advocate for such initiatives, they must operate within the framework of the law.

The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (Oyo branch) later confirmed the postponement in a statement, stressing that “Islam portrays peace!” and that the inauguration would be delayed until further notice.

Governor Makinde reassured residents that the constitution remains the supreme law in Oyo State. He stated, “In this state, the Nigerian Constitution is the law I swore to uphold. If any actions align with the law, they are permissible. However, if they do not, I will ensure the law is strictly enforced.”

The proposal has sparked public interest and debate, with Makinde’s response aimed at reinforcing the principles of governance rooted in fairness, legality, and constitutional adherence.