Ibadan, Nigeria – Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared that his administration is not opposed to the operation of Sharia panels in the state, affirming that residents are free to seek dispute resolution through the panel if they so desire.

Speaking during the 2025 Iftar programme organized by the state government at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan, on Wednesday, Makinde clarified his stance on the Sharia panel’s legality and operation.

“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. “Whoever wants to patronise it and feels it is an alternative dispute mechanism, it is okay. It will help the government and reduce the number of cases before our judges.”

Sharia Panel: An Alternative Dispute Resolution

The governor explained that the Sharia panel could serve as an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanism, emphasizing that the court of law remains the ultimate authority under the 1999 Constitution.

“We will support anything in our Constitution. Even within families, not every issue is taken to court. Elders resolve some disputes, and if people want to resolve issues through the Sharia panel, we have no objection,” he added.

Makinde stressed that his administration is committed to religious harmony and unity, warning against individuals seeking to exploit religious matters for political gains ahead of future elections.

“As we move towards the next election, there will be elements who think only about winning at all costs. But our focus is on building for the next generation, not just the next election,” he said.

Background of the Sharia Panel in Oyo State

The Chairman of the Sharia Committee of Oyo Land, Dr. Rafiu Bello, recently revealed that a Sharia panel had been established in Oyo Town and had already commenced sittings.

Initially, the governor’s media aide, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, suggested that the state might seek legal clarification on the constitutionality of the panel. However, during the Iftar event, Makinde confirmed that there are no plans to challenge the panel’s operations in court.

Commitment to Development and Unity

Governor Makinde also highlighted his administration’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure development, citing the reconstruction of 50- to 60-year-old roads to ensure their durability for 30 years.

“In our estimation, these roads required more than patching. We decided to scrape and rebuild them properly to ensure lasting quality,” he explained.

He called on residents to remain vigilant against divisive tactics, promising that Oyo State would not return to the “do-or-die” politics of the past.

Commendations and Goodwill Messages

The Chief Imam of the Oyo State Government House Mosque, Adebayo Rufai, praised Makinde for his dedication to the people, particularly his support during the Ramadan period.

In their goodwill messages, Alhaji Abidemi Siyanbade, Secretary of the Oyo State Muslim Community, and Prof. Rasheed Aderinoye lauded the governor for allocating land for the reconstruction of the late Rashidi Adesokan Mosque affected by the ongoing renovation of Premier Hotel, Ibadan.

The Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, also commended Makinde’s leadership and expressed appreciation for the cooperation among the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of government.

Dignitaries in Attendance

The event was attended by several prominent figures, including:

• Oba Rashidi Ladoja, former governor and Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland
• Taofeek Arapaja, PDP Deputy National Chairman (South)
• Adebo Ogundoyin, Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly (represented by Deputy Speaker, Mohammed Fadeyi)
• Justice Iyabo Yerima, Chief Judge of Oyo State (represented by Justice R.B. Akintola)
• Olubunmi Oni, Head of Service of Oyo State

Governor Makinde concluded by expressing gratitude to Muslim faithful, the judiciary, and service chiefs for their continuous support in fostering peace and progress in the state.