By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has declared that any resident who wishes to settle disputes through the Sharia Panel is free to do so in the state.
Makinde made this declaration during the 2025 Iftar programme organised by the state government.
The event was attended by Islamic clerics, Muslim leaders, and top government functionaries in the state.
While addressing the gathering, Makinde noted that he needed to clarify the plan to apply Sharia law in some states of the South-West, including Oyo.
He stated that his administration would not oppose anything that aligns with the Constitution.
He explained that members of the public are free to approach the Sharia Panel if they so wish.
The Governor, who described the panel as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism, emphasised that the courts remain constitutionally empowered to settle all disputes.
According to him: “I read in the newspaper that I would go to court for an interpretation regarding the Sharia Panel, which is ongoing in Oyo. That is not my position.
“My position is that we will support anything that is in our constitution. I made a statement when Muslims in South-Western Nigeria, MUSWEN, came to my office that we should not encourage discord among ourselves, no matter how small.
“My interpretation is that even within our families, not every issue is taken to court. When people have disagreements, the elders in the family try to settle the dispute.
“So, regarding this particular Sharia Panel, whoever wishes to engage with it and sees it as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism, it is fine. It will help the government and ensure that fewer cases reach our judges.
“We will encourage alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and the only thing I can say is that if enforcement or further clarification is required, the courts—recognised by the constitution—remain available.”
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