2027: Vote out candidates who oppose Sharia — Lagos Imam tells Muslims

Muslims in the South-west have been urged to reject any governorship candidate who refuses to commit to the establishment of Sharia courts in their states.

This was the position of the Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Sheikh Dr Ridwan Jamiu, over the ongoing contentious issue of Sharia courts establishment in Yoruba land.

While delivering the Jumaat sermon last Friday, Dr Jamiu stressed the importance of holding candidates accountable for their stance on Shariah courts.

“Elections are coming, and any governorship candidate seeking your vote must be committed to establishing Shariah courts.

“It is time we assert our constitutional rights. Shariah courts in the Southwest states are long overdue”, Sheikh Ridwan said.

The Sheikh further gave instances of where the constitution recognises Shariah, citing Sections 38 and 40, which guarantee freedom of religion and association.

According to him, Shariah is mentioned approximately 73 times in the Nigerian constitution.

Also, clarifying the purpose of Shariah panels, he described them as Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms allowed to be established in any state.

“Section 177 allows any state to establish Shariah courts to handle matters such as marriage, divorce, custody of children, property law, inheritance, and wills,” he explained.

The Imam emphasized that Shariah courts are essential in Yoruba land and should be established in all Southwest states.

“We have Shariah courts in the North, and it has not caused any harm to non-Muslims. It is not the business of non-Muslims; it is meant for Muslims alone,” he said.

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