Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has clarified his position on the application of Sharia law, insisting that his administration would not act contrary to the Constitution regarding its reported implementation in some Southwestern states.
Makinde made this clarification at the Iftar Programme organized by the Oyo State Government, the sixth since he assumed office in 2019. The event was held at the frontage of the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
He emphasized that his administration would not oppose anything that aligns with the Constitution.
The governor declared that members of the public are free to approach the Sharia Panel if they wish to do so.
He explained that the panel could serve as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism but affirmed that the courts remain constitutionally empowered to settle disputes. He reassured that his administration would always uphold constitutional principles.
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According to Makinde, his administration is committed to ensuring religious harmony and unity in the state and will not allow any individual or group to incite division.
He noted that while some individuals may exploit religion to gain political advantage, his government remains focused on the sustainable development of the state for the benefit of both residents and future generations.
He said:*”I read in the newspaper that I would go to court for an interpretation regarding the Sharia Panel in Oyo. That is not my position.
“My stance is that we will support anything that is in line with our Constitution. I previously stated, when the leadership of the Muslim Ummah of South Western Nigeria (MUSWEN) visited my office, that we should not encourage discord, no matter how minor.
“In my understanding, even within families, not every issue is taken to court. When disagreements arise, family elders often intervene to resolve them.
“So, regarding this Sharia Panel, whoever chooses to engage with it as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism is free to do so. It can help the government by reducing the caseload of our judges.
“We will continue to encourage alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. However, if enforcement or legal clarity is required, the court—recognized by the Constitution—remains the ultimate authority.
“We have coexisted peacefully, and as we approach the next election, some individuals will attempt to cause distractions. However, in this administration, we think about the next generation, not just the next election.
“After three years in office, we decided to rehabilitate our roads. Previously, past administrations would patch the roads, only for them to deteriorate again during the rainy season.
“We observed that many of these roads were 50 to 60 years old. So, we decided to reconstruct them entirely, ensuring that they remain durable for the next 30 years.
As we approach the upcoming election, let’s stay alert. Different strategies will be used to distract us, but I am confident that your prayers will guide us. Oyo State will not revert to the days of ‘take-no-prisoners’ politics.
Governor Makinde showed gratitude to the Muslim community within the state for their prayers, backing, and collaboration with his government, recognizing that their positive sentiments have played a role in advancing the state’s development.
He further expressed his appreciation to lawmakers, judges, and the residents of Oyo State for their cooperation. He also praised the security organizations for their work in ensuring stability and safety.
The governor encouraged everybody to refrain from engaging in activities that might disturb the state’s tranquil environment.
During the Iftar address, the Chief Imam of the Oyo State Government House Mosque, Sheikh Adebayo Bello Rufai, noted that Governor Makinde enjoys divine favor because of his commitment, constancy, and benevolent actions toward the public. He further emphasized that God will grant him rewards for offering meals to the populace, especially throughout the month of Ramadan.
During his introductory comments, Chairman Chief Bayo Oyero expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde for organizing the sixth installment of the Iftar event and praised him for consistently supporting the Muslim community within the state.
He sought divine assistance for the prosperity of Makinde’s governance and urged for additional prayers for the welfare of the state and the country.
In individual goodwill statements, Alhaji Abidemi Siyanbade, the Secretary of the Oyo State Muslim Community, along with Professor Rasheed Aderinoye, praised the governor for designating land for the rebuilding of the late Rashidi Adesokan Mosque. This mosque had been damaged due to the current refurbishment work at Premier Hotel in Ibadan.
They similarly applauded Governor Makinde for his recent hiring of primary and secondary school educators, portraying him as a benevolent and forward-thinking leader who welcomes all faith communities within the state.
During his vote of thanks, Deputy Governor Barrister Bayo Lawal praised Governor Makinde’s leadership abilities and recognized the assistance and collaboration from the other branches of government.
The gathering featured notable figures such as a past governor of the state and the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Senator Rasheed Adewodu Ladoja; the ex-Deputy Governor of Oyo State and current PDP Deputy National Chairman for South region, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; former Deputy Governor, Engineer Hamid Gbadamosi; Chief Mrs. Mutiat Ladoja (who was represented by Alhaja Kobiowu); along with the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin (represented at the event by his deputy, Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi).
Present as well were Representative Hon. Abass Adigun from the Ibadan North East/Ibadan South East Federal Constituency, Chief Judge of Oyo State Justice Iyabo Yerima (who was represented by Justice R.B. Akintola), President of the Customary Court of Appeal Justice Tajudeen Abdulganiyu, and Head of Service Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, mni.
The notable attendees also encompassed Dr. Saka Balogun, who chaired the Oyo State Elders’ Council; Sheik Hashim Atere, presiding over the Pilgrims Welfare Board’s Muslim division; Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, serving as the Secretary for the Oyo State PDP; Alhaja Wulemotu Ibitoye, recognized as the leader of women within the Oyo State PDP; Professor K.K. Oloso; Baba Isale Musulumi from Oloye Nureni Akanbi’s lineage; Barrister Ajeniyi Ajewole, holding the position of President-General at the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes; alongside various Muslim religious leaders, traditional rulers, government ministers, and high-ranking civil servants, amongst others.
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