The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, Oyo State chapter, has announced plans to inaugurate a Sharia court in the state
The inauguration ceremony is scheduled to take place on January 11, 2025, at the Muslim Community Islamic Centre, located on Oba Adeyemi High School Road, Mobolaje Area, Oyo.
According to a flier that circulated online on Tuesday, the event will host prominent dignitaries, including the Bashorun of Oyo land, High Chief Yusuf Akinade Olayinka 1, as the Royal Father of the Day; the Mufairu of Oyo land, Alhaji Abdullateef Eleyele, as the Spiritual Father of the Day; and the Aare Musulumi of Oyo land, Alhaji Tajudeen Kamorise, as the Chief Host.
However, the announcement has sparked widespread criticism, particularly on social media, with many opposing the introduction of a Sharia court in the South West, a predominantly Yoruba region.
One user on X (formerly Twitter), identified as #OurFavOnlineDoc, warned about the potential consequences of implementing Sharia law, stating:
“To whom it may concern, if Sharia law gets implemented in your state, be prepared for arbitrary arrests and oppression, even if you are not a Muslim. This is not speculation; it is based on what has already happened in places where Sharia law is enforced.”
Another user, #BabaAjisefa, expressed similar concerns:
“If you’re silent on this Sharia law saga in the South West, then you’re enabling it. It starts small, but eventually, it affects everyone. No to Sharia law in Yorubaland!”
Other users echoed these sentiments, with some suggesting that those passionate about Sharia law should relocate to regions where it is already practiced.
Attempts to contact the Chairman and Secretary of the Sharia Committee in Oyo, Dr. Rafiu Bello and Sulaimon Abuqoodi, for comments were unsuccessful, as calls and messages went unanswered.
The debate continues as many Nigerians voice concerns over the implications of introducing Sharia law in a region traditionally known for its religious tolerance and diversity.
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