Twenty-nine Pan-Yoruba organizations have strongly opposed the introduction of Sharia law in Yoruba territories, citing concerns over its effectiveness in addressing socioeconomic issues. These groups, representing various sectors including artisans, students, and professionals, issued a joint statement condemning the proposal as divisive and unsuitable for the region’s multi-religious society.
The groups emphasized that Sharia law, practiced in 12 northern Nigerian states, has not alleviated poverty, corruption, or instability. They pointed out that regions implementing Sharia suffer from some of the highest poverty rates in the country. For example, Sokoto, which operates under Sharia, has a poverty rate of nearly 80%, the highest in Nigeria.
Rejecting the proposal, the groups stated:
“We do not come as Christians, Muslims, animists, atheists, or traditional worshippers, but as Yoruba people seeking peace, love, and progress in our land.”
They argued that Yoruba society’s cultural and religious diversity, where families often include members of different faiths, makes Sharia law impractical and potentially harmful to community harmony.
The groups criticized the implementation of Sharia in northern states, describing it as biased and hypocritical. They highlighted disparities in justice, where impoverished individuals face harsh penalties while wealthy offenders often evade punishment. They also noted the association of Sharia regions with terrorism, violence, and instability.
The statement accused proponents of Sharia of attempting to destabilize the Southwest for political gains. It warned that introducing Sharia could ignite intra-Yoruba conflicts, undermining the region’s development and unity.
The coalition reaffirmed their commitment to Yoruba progress through hard work and visionary leadership rather than religious laws. They urged Yoruba leaders and citizens to reject any attempts to impose Sharia, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the region’s democratic and secular traditions.
The organizations behind the statement include the Alliance for Yoruba Democratic Movements, O’odua Peoples Congress (Reformed), Yoruba Artisan and Traders Association, and others. Together, they vowed to resist any efforts to introduce Sharia in Yoruba territories.
The rejection of Sharia law by these groups reflects widespread concern over its potential impact on the Yoruba people’s social cohesion and development. As the debate continues, the focus remains on preserving the region’s unique identity and fostering progress through unity.
