We will resist any move to establish Sharia courts in South West, declares Yoruba group
By Julius Alabi, Akure
The Yoruba Nation Youths both at home and in the diaspora have issued a strong warning against any attempt to introduce Sharia law or establish Sharia courts within the South-West region of Nigeria.
In a joint statement, the Yoruba National Youth Leader (Diaspora), Prophet Ayodele Ologunloluwa, and the Homebase Leader, Comrade Oyegunle Oluwamayowa Omotoyole (Omayor), emphasized that Yoruba youths are prepared to defend their ancestral land against any form of destabilization, including attempts to impose Sharia law.
The warning follows reports that the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria (Oyo State Chapter) has scheduled January 11, 2025, for the inauguration of a Sharia court in Oyo town. The event is set to take place at the Muslim Community Islamic Centre, Oba Adeyemi High School Road, Mobolaje area, Agbogangan, Oyo.
“We will resist any move to impose Sharia law or courts in Yorubaland,” the statement declared. “Yoruba culture and traditions are distinct, and any attempt to introduce alien laws will be met with fierce opposition.”
The youths further described the proposal as “laughable” and vowed to mobilize resistance efforts if the plan proceeds.
“We warn the Nigerian government not to create divisions in Yorubaland. Our focus is on Yoruba Nation self-determination, and we will not allow any external influence to derail our struggle.”
Quoting Yoruba leader Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the group reaffirmed their resolve: “Instead of a Yorubaman prostrating for a Hausa-Fulani, it is better to take courage and die.”
Key Demands and Warnings:
- Immediate Withdrawal of Plans – The youths demanded an immediate halt to any plans to introduce Sharia courts in the South-West.
- Support from Leaders – They called on Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, South-West governors, Yoruba monarchs, senators, and other leaders to reject the proposal and protect the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.
- Commitment to Self-Determination – The youths reiterated their pursuit of Yoruba Nation autonomy and declared that their right to self-determination is non-negotiable.
“Sharia law is incompatible with our values, culture, and way of life,” the statement continued. “We will not allow any attempt to disrupt the peace of Yorubaland under the guise of religious imposition.”
The group expressed concern that the establishment of a Sharia court in Oyo town could pave the way for further destabilization and enable extremist activities.
“We reject any effort to entrench practices that undermine our faith, values, and identity,” they added. “We will resist this agenda with all our might.”
The Yoruba Nation Youths also emphasized their determination to establish an independent Yoruba Nation free from oppression, stating:
“No force on earth or in hell can stop the rise of a sovereign Yoruba state.”
They concluded by urging Yoruba citizens to remain vigilant and prepared to defend their land against any external influence or imposition.
