Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has clarified his stance on the establishment of a Sharia panel in the state, stating that he is not opposed to its operation and has no intention of challenging its constitutionality in court.
Speaking at the 2025 Iftar programme hosted by the state government at the Government House in Ibadan, Makinde affirmed that anyone who wishes to settle disputes through the Sharia panel is free to do so.
The governor’s comments came amid recent debates over the establishment of a Sharia panel in Oyo town.
The Chairman of the Sharia Committee of Oyo Land, Dr. Rafiu Bello, had earlier confirmed that the panel had commenced sittings.
Makinde, through his media aide Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, had initially stated that the state might seek legal clarification on the panel’s operations.
However, at the Iftar event, he clarified his position, stressing that Sharia panels could serve as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism, though courts remain the ultimate authority under the Constitution.
“My position is that we will support anything that is in our Constitution. Even in families, not every issue is taken to court; elders try to settle disputes. If the Sharia panel serves as an alternative dispute mechanism, it is okay. It will help the government by reducing the number of cases in our courts,” Makinde said.
He assured that his administration remains committed to religious harmony and unity in the state, warning against those seeking to exploit religion for political gain.
“As we move towards the next election, some elements will try to create division. But our administration thinks about the next generation, not just the next election. We must remain vigilant against attempts to cause religious disharmony,” he added.
The governor also highlighted his administration’s infrastructural development efforts, emphasizing long-term solutions such as road rehabilitation to prevent recurring damage.
Makinde expressed gratitude to the Muslim community for their support and prayers, noting that their contributions had helped the state achieve significant progress.
During the event, the Chief Imam of the Oyo State Government House Mosque, Adebayo Rufai, praised Makinde for his dedication and generosity, especially during Ramadan. Other Muslim leaders, including the Secretary of the Oyo State Muslim Community, Alhaji Abidemi Siyanbade, and Prof. Rasheed Aderinoye, commended the governor for allocating new land for the reconstruction of the late Rashidi Adesokan Mosque.
Dignitaries at the event included former Governor Rashidi Ladoja, former Deputy Governor Taofeek Arapaja, Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly Adebo Ogundoyin (represented by Deputy Speaker Mohammed Fadeyi), and Chief Judge of the state, Justice Iyabo Yerima (represented by Justice R.B. Akintola).
