By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has clarified his position on the application of Sharia law, insisting that his administration would not act contrary to the Constitution regarding its reported implementation in some Southwestern states.
Makinde made this clarification at the Iftar Programme organized by the Oyo State Government, the sixth since he assumed office in 2019. The event was held at the frontage of the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
He emphasized that his administration would not oppose anything that aligns with the Constitution.
The governor declared that members of the public are free to approach the Sharia Panel if they wish to do so.
He explained that the panel could serve as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism but affirmed that the courts remain constitutionally empowered to settle disputes. He reassured that his administration would always uphold constitutional principles.
According to Makinde, his administration is committed to ensuring religious harmony and unity in the state and will not allow any individual or group to incite division.
He noted that while some individuals may exploit religion to gain political advantage, his government remains focused on the sustainable development of the state for the benefit of both residents and future generations.
He said:
*”I read in the newspaper that I would go to court for an interpretation regarding the Sharia Panel in Oyo. That is not my position.
“My stance is that we will support anything that is in line with our Constitution. I previously stated, when the leadership of the Muslim Ummah of South Western Nigeria (MUSWEN) visited my office, that we should not encourage discord, no matter how minor.
“In my understanding, even within families, not every issue is taken to court. When disagreements arise, family elders often intervene to resolve them.
“So, regarding this Sharia Panel, whoever chooses to engage with it as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism is free to do so. It can help the government by reducing the caseload of our judges.
“We will continue to encourage alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. However, if enforcement or legal clarity is required, the court—recognized by the Constitution—remains the ultimate authority.
“We have coexisted peacefully, and as we approach the next election, some individuals will attempt to cause distractions. However, in this administration, we think about the next generation, not just the next election.
“After three years in office, we decided to rehabilitate our roads. Previously, past administrations would patch the roads, only for them to deteriorate again during the rainy season.
“We observed that many of these roads were 50 to 60 years old. So, we decided to reconstruct them entirely, ensuring that they remain durable for the next 30 years.
“As we move towards the next election, let us remain vigilant. Various tactics will be employed to create distractions, but I trust that your prayers will see us through. Oyo State will never return to the era of ‘do-or-die’ politics.”*
Governor Makinde expressed his appreciation to the Islamic faithful in the state for their prayers, support, and cooperation with his administration, acknowledging that their goodwill has contributed to the state’s progress.
He also extended his gratitude to legislators, the judiciary, and the people of Oyo State for their collaboration. Additionally, he commended security agencies for their efforts in maintaining peace and security.
The governor urged everyone to resist actions that could disrupt the state’s peaceful atmosphere.
Delivering the Iftar lecture, the Chief Imam of the Oyo State Government House Mosque, Sheikh Adebayo Bello Rufai, remarked that Governor Makinde is favored by Allah due to his dedication, steadfastness, and good deeds towards the people. He added that God would reward him for providing meals to the people, particularly during Ramadan.
In his opening remarks, the chairman of the occasion, Chief Bayo Oyero, thanked Governor Makinde for hosting the sixth edition of the Iftar and for his continued support of the Muslim community in the state.
He prayed for the success of Makinde’s administration and called for more prayers for both the state and the nation.
In their separate goodwill messages, the Secretary of the Oyo State Muslim Community, Alhaji Abidemi Siyanbade, and Professor Rasheed Aderinoye commended the governor for allocating a new site for the reconstruction of the late Rashidi Adesokan Mosque, which was affected by the ongoing renovation of Premier Hotel, Ibadan.
They also praised Governor Makinde’s recent recruitment of primary and secondary school teachers, describing him as a kind-hearted and visionary leader who embraces all religious groups in the state.
In his vote of thanks, the Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, lauded Governor Makinde’s leadership qualities and acknowledged the support and cooperation of other arms of government.
The event was attended by prominent dignitaries, including a former governor of the state and the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Senator Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja; former Deputy Governor of Oyo State and PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; former Deputy Governor, Engineer Hamid Gbadamosi; Chief Mrs. Mutiat Ladoja (represented by Alhaja Kobiowu); and the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin (represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi).
Also present were the member representing Ibadan North East/Ibadan South East Federal Constituency, Hon. Abass Adigun; the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima (represented by Justice R.B. Akintola); the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Tajudeen Abdulganiyu; and the Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, mni.
Other dignitaries included Dr. Saka Balogun, Chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council; Sheik Hashim Atere, Chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing); Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, Secretary of the Oyo State PDP; Alhaja Wulemotu Ibitoye, Oyo State PDP Women Leader; Professor K.K. Oloso; Baba Isale Musulumi, Oloye Nureni Akanbi; Barrister Ajeniyi Ajewole, President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes; as well as Muslim clerics, royal fathers, commissioners, and permanent secretaries, among others.