The Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Sheikh Dr. Ridwan Jamiu, has called on Muslims in the South-West to reject any governorship candidate who opposes the establishment of Sharia courts in their states.
During his Jumaat sermon on Friday, Sheikh Jamiu emphasized the importance of holding political candidates accountable for their stance on Sharia law. He urged Muslim voters to demand a commitment to the establishment of Sharia courts as a condition for their support in the 2027 elections.
“Elections are coming, and any governorship candidate seeking your vote must be committed to establishing Sharia courts,” he stated. “It is time we assert our constitutional rights. Sharia courts in the South-West states are long overdue.”
The cleric cited sections of the Nigerian Constitution, particularly Sections 38 and 40, which guarantee freedom of religion and association. He further noted that Sharia is referenced multiple times in the constitution and argued that states have the legal backing to establish Sharia courts.
“Sheikh Jamiu explained that Sharia courts serve as Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, handling issues such as marriage, divorce, child custody, inheritance, and property law for Muslims.
He reassured non-Muslims that the implementation of Sharia courts in the South-West would not affect them, stated, “We have Sharia courts in the North, and it has not caused any harm to non-Muslims. It is meant for Muslims alone.”
The call for Sharia courts in Yoruba land has sparked debates among religious and political stakeholders, with mixed reactions from different quarters.
