A group called Yoruba One Voice, led by Gani Adams, has spoken out against bringing Sharia law to Southwest Nigeria. The group warns that this could cause problems in the region and for Nigeria as a whole.
The group shared this message after an online meeting titled “Sharia Law in Yorubaland: Setting Things Straight through Restructuring.” The meeting included Yoruba people living in Nigeria and abroad.
The group believes that giving regions more control over their affairs (restructuring) is the only way for Nigeria’s different groups to live together peacefully. They warned that if the government doesn’t allow true federalism, the Yoruba people might seek complete independence.
At the meeting, Adams criticised attempts to bring Sharia law to Yoruba areas, saying some people are using religion for political gain.
“Introducing Sharia law will not improve our economic, political, or cultural fortunes,” Adams said. “It could shatter the peace of our land, force our youth into violence, and spark crises similar to what is happening in other parts of the country.”
The group recommended changing the constitution to give local governments more power, allow regions to control their resources, reduce federal government control, and strengthen local governance. They also said any religious courts should be voluntary and respect human rights.
Professor Oluwafemi Obayori, who gave the main speech, acknowledged that Islamic law has existed in some Yoruba areas like Ilorin.
However, he warned that recent attempts to expand Sharia represent a “cultural offensive” rather than spiritual growth. He said the spread of Sharia panels and the reduction of traditional practices threaten cultural identity.
Professor Kolawole Raheem added that while Yoruba Muslims deserve faith-based dispute resolution, these systems shouldn’t override Nigeria’s regular legal system or limit others’ rights. He pointed out that in northern states with Sharia law since 1999, non-Muslims have often faced discrimination.
Prince Adedokun Ademiluyi, the group’s Secretary General, called for partnerships with other ethnic groups seeking restructuring. He also emphasised the need for stronger regional security to prevent outside influence.
The meeting ended with a call for peaceful resistance against what they see as growing religious extremism in a diverse society.
