Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reassured residents that his administration will uphold the Nigerian Constitution in all legal matters, including the role of the Sharia Panel in the state.
Speaking at the 2025 Iftar Programme organized by the state government, Makinde dismissed reports claiming his government planned to challenge the panel in court. The event, held at the Government House in Ibadan, was the sixth of its kind since he took office in 2019.
Makinde clarified that citizens are free to use the Sharia Panel for alternative dispute resolution if they choose. However, he reaffirmed that the courts remain the ultimate authority for all legal matters in Oyo State.
Sharia Panel as an Alternative Dispute Resolution
Addressing concerns about the panel, the governor explained its role in resolving disputes outside the formal judicial system.
“I read in the newspaper that I would go to court for interpretation on the Sharia Panel, which is ongoing in Oyo. That is not my position,” Makinde said.
“My position is that we will support anything that is in our Constitution. When Muslims in Southwestern Nigeria (MUSWEN) visited me, I told them we should not encourage discord among ourselves.”
He compared the panel’s function to how elders settle family disagreements without going to court.
“Even in families, not every issue is taken to court. The elders intervene and settle disputes,” he said.
The governor added that the Sharia Panel could help ease the burden on judges.
“If people see it as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism, it is okay. It will help the government and reduce the cases going to our judges.“
Commitment to Peace and Development
Gov. Makinde warned against individuals using religion for political gain.
“As we move toward the next election, there will be elements who think only about winning votes. Our administration thinks about the next generation,” he said.
He also highlighted his administration’s efforts in infrastructure development, emphasizing the long-term benefits of rebuilding roads instead of patching them.
“Many roads in Oyo are 50 to 60 years old. We are reconstructing them so they last for at least 30 years,” he explained.
The governor expressed gratitude to the Islamic community for their prayers and support. He also thanked the legislature, judiciary, and security agencies for maintaining peace in the state.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and reject divisive politics.
“People will come with all sorts of narratives, but your prayers will see us through. Oyo State will never return to the era of ‘do or die’ politics,” he assured.
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