Barr. Adebayo Shittu, a former minister of communications and governorship aspirant, has vowed to introduce Sharia law in Oyo if people demand it when he becomes governor of the state, describing opposition to the Islamic legal system as the product of religious intolerance, particularly among Christians.

Shittu made the remarks during an interview aired on SYMFOMI, a YouTube television platform.

The interviewer had asked the ex-minister to comment on the recent move by some stakeholders to introduce Sharia law in the south-west geopolitical zone.

Responding, Shittu asked the interviewer how the institutionalisation of Sharia law in the south-west will affect him negatively as a Christian.

“Let me ask you. How does Sharia law, if institutionalised, affect you as a Christian? How does it affect you negatively?” Shittu asked.

Responding, the interviewer cited how Hisbah police in some northern states infringe on human rights while claiming to be implementing Sharia law.

“The constitution guarantees freedom of religion. You are talking out of intolerance for religion. You are very intolerant,” Shittu responded.

Asked if he will introduce Sharia law if elected governor of Oyo in 2027, he said: “If the people ask for it. Even the constitution says it should be established whenever it is demanded. It is open because the constitution allows it. I don’t run away from battles.

A lot of people oppose Sharia, like you, out of intolerance. That is the truth. If there is Sharia in any community, no Christian can be forced to go under Sharia.”

In 2024, there was a groundswell of controversies and disagreements online and offline over moves to establish Sharia arbitration panels in south-west states.

The controversy began in December 2024 when the Oyo state chapter of the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria (SCSIN) announced plans to establish a sharia court in the state and its environs.

The announcement was met with backlash. Afterwards, the council indefinitely suspended an event to set up the panels.

Nigeria’s legal system is a fusion of common law, customary law, and Sharia (Islamic) law, reflecting the country’s ethnic and religious diversity.

The constitution provides a framework for the establishment and practice of Sharia and customary laws, particularly in civil matters.

Most states in the north of the country have infused Sharia law into their legal systems.

Recently, Shittu, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), announced his intention to contest the 2027 Oyo governorship election, saying he is the most qualified hopeful for the seat.

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