The Yoruba Nation Youths have strongly opposed plans to introduce Sharia law or establish Sharia courts in the South-West region of Nigeria.
In a statement issued yesterday by the group’s leaders, Ayodele Ologunloluwa (Diaspora Leader) and Oyegunle Omotoyole (Homebase Leader), the group vowed to defend Yoruba ancestral land against any perceived attempts at destabilization or religious imposition.
The group’s warning follows reports that the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria (Oyo State Chapter) plans to inaugurate a Sharia court in Oyo town on January 11, 2025.
The event is scheduled to take place at the Muslim Community Islamic Centre, Oba Adeyemi High School Road, Mobolaje area, Agbogangan, Oyo.
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In their statement, the Yoruba Nation Youths described the proposal as “laughable” and asserted their readiness to mobilize resistance if the plan moves forward.
“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 group criticized the Federal Government for allowing such plans to gain traction, warning against actions that could create divisions within Yorubaland.
They reiterated their commitment to the Yoruba Nation’s self-determination agenda, asserting that their struggle would not be derailed by external influences.
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The statement further emphasized that Sharia law is incompatible with Yoruba values and identity. “Sharia law is incompatible with our values, culture, and way of life.
We will not allow any attempt to disrupt the peace of Yorubaland under the guise of religious imposition,” the group stated.
Declaring their opposition to practices they believe undermine Yoruba traditions, the group called on all Yoruba people to stand united in resistance.
They also reaffirmed their goal of achieving a sovereign Yoruba state, stating, “No force on earth or in hell can stop the rise of a sovereign Yoruba state.”
The controversy highlights underlying tensions between the Yoruba Nation movement and advocates of Sharia law in parts of Nigeria.
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The proposed inauguration of a Sharia court in Oyo has sparked fears of religious and cultural clashes, as the South-West region is predominantly influenced by Yoruba traditions and diverse religious practices.
The Yoruba Nation Youths’ firm stance reflects broader concerns about preserving regional autonomy and cultural identity in the face of perceived encroachments.
The group has called on the Federal Government to intervene and ensure the peace and unity of Yorubaland are not threatened.
Meanwhile, the scheduled inauguration of the Sharia court remains a point of contention, with further reactions expected in the coming days.