Femi Ashekun/
The Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Sheikh Dr. Ridwan Jamiu, has called on Muslims in the Southwest to reject any governorship candidate unwilling to support the establishment of Sharia courts in their states.
Speaking during a sermon at the Lekki Central Mosque last Friday, Dr. Jamiu emphasised the importance of holding political candidates accountable for their stance on this issue, which he described as a constitutional right for Muslims.
“Elections are coming, and any governorship candidate seeking your vote must be committed to establishing Shariah courts,” the Chief Imam declared, urging Muslims to assess candidates based on their willingness to address this long-standing demand.
Jamiu argued that Sharia courts serve as Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms designed to handle issues such as marriage, divorce, child custody, property law, inheritance, and wills within the framework of Islamic law.
He cited constitutional provisions, including Sections 38 and 40, which guarantee freedom of religion and association, and Section 177, which permits states to establish Sharia courts.
“The Nigerian constitution explicitly recognises Sharia. It is mentioned approximately 73 times, and establishing Shariah courts in the Southwest is long overdue. It’s time we assert our constitutional rights,” he added.
The Chief Imam’s call comes amid ongoing debates over the place of Sharia law in Yoruba states, where diverse religious beliefs coexist. While some view Sharia courts as a practical ADR tool, others see their establishment as a potential source of religious tension.
Jamiu’s message highlights the growing demand among Muslims in the Southwest for Sharia courts.
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