The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (Oyo branch), has announced the indefinite suspension of its plan to inaugurate a Sharia court in Oyo town.
The suspension followed widespread outcry against the planned Sharia Court inauguration earlier slated for January 11, 2025.
In a broadcast on Tuesday, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, acknowledged the planned Sharia court and the attendant controversy.
“About the establishment of Sharia court in Oyo town, people may try, but for us, I swore to uphold our laws and the Constitution of Nigeria.
“If their actions are within the law, fine, if not they should expect that I will insist the law must be followed,” the governor said.
The planned Sharia court inauguration was to take place at the Muslim Community Islamic Centre in Mobolaje Area, Oyo, and was to include prominent figures such as the Basorun of Oyo Land, High Chief Yusuf Akinade Olayinka, and the Aare Musulumi of Oyo Land, Alhaji Chief Tajudeen Abdul-Hammed Kamorise.
The announcement sparked intense debates on social media and within the state, with critics arguing that the introduction of a Sharia court could disrupt the state’s religious harmony.
However, amid growing tension, the organisers announced the indefinite postponement of the event.