Former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, has said he would introduce Sharia law in Oyo State if elected governor and if the people demand it.
Shittu made the statement during an interview on Naija Unfiltered, a podcast published by Symfoni, while responding to questions on the ongoing debate over the introduction of Sharia law in parts of the South-West.
Asked to comment on moves by some stakeholders pushing for Sharia in the region, the former minister said Nigeria’s constitution guarantees freedom of religion and association, stressing that no group should be denied the right to organise its affairs in line with its beliefs.
According to Shittu, opposition to Sharia in the South-West is driven more by intolerance than by constitutional limitations. He argued that Sharia law is not new to Nigeria and already operates in several northern states without infringing on the rights of non-Muslims.
He maintained that Sharia would only apply to Muslims who voluntarily submit to it, adding that non-Muslims would not be compelled to live under Islamic law.
Shittu, who has previously indicated interest in the Oyo governorship, said leadership should reflect the wishes of the people, insisting that if the majority of Oyo residents demand Sharia, a responsible government must respect that choice.
His comments have reignited debate in the South-West, a region historically known for its religious diversity and coexistence, with critics warning that the issue could heighten tensions if not carefully managed.
Abuja Network News
Tags
News