by Zainab Adinoyi
Former Minister of Communications, , has stirred fresh controversy by describing Nigerians who oppose Sharia law as intolerant, insisting that resistance to the Islamic legal system is rooted more in prejudice than in constitutional or democratic concerns.
Shittu made the remarks during an interview on the Naija Unfiltered podcast, where he defended Sharia as a legitimate component of Nigeria’s legal framework. He argued that Sharia law, where applied, does not infringe on the rights of Christians or adherents of other faiths because it is meant to govern Muslims who voluntarily submit to it.
According to him, opposition to Sharia — particularly in southern Nigeria — reflects a refusal to accept religious diversity in a plural society. He maintained that no individual would be compelled to practice or be judged under Sharia against their will, stressing that religious freedom remains protected under the Nigerian Constitution.
The former minister, who has indicated interest in contesting the governorship of , said he would only consider introducing Sharia in the state if there was clear demand from the people. He argued that the constitution already provides room for Sharia courts and Islamic personal law, just as customary courts exist for other traditions.
Shittu questioned why Sharia continues to provoke anxiety, asking critics to clearly state how its existence harms Christians or undermines national unity. He insisted that labeling Sharia as extremist or dangerous, without evidence of coercion, amounts to intolerance toward Muslims exercising their constitutional rights.
His comments have triggered renewed debate across the country, with critics warning that introducing Sharia in the South-West could deepen religious tensions, while supporters argue that denying Muslims access to Sharia amounts to discrimination.
The remarks come at a time of heightened sensitivity around religion, law, and politics in Nigeria, as political actors increasingly test the boundaries between constitutional provisions and public perception ahead of future elections.