Shittu Vows to Introduce Sharia Law in Oyo if Demanded, Labels Critics Intolerant

Adebayo Shittu, a former Minister of Communications and a leading aspirant for the 2027 governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, has ignited a fierce debate within the state's political landscape by declaring his willingness to introduce Sharia law if elected. Shittu, who served in the cabinet of former President Muhammadu Buhari, stated that his administration would not hesitate to implement the Islamic legal code if it reflects the genuine demand of the populace. He made these remarks while addressing questions on his policy direction and religious inclusivity, a sensitive topic in the multi-religious South West region.

Defending his position, the former minister argued that democracy is fundamentally about adhering to the wishes of the people. He posited that if a significant segment of the Oyo State population—specifically the Muslim community—requests the implementation of Sharia, it would be undemocratic for a leader to ignore such a mandate. Shittu clarified that the Sharia legal system he envisions would apply strictly to Muslims, particularly in matters of personal status such as inheritance, marriage, and civil disputes, which he noted are already recognized to some extent by the Nigerian Constitution.

Shittu took a swipe at those who have prematurely criticized his stance, describing the opposing voices as "intolerant." He contended that the resistance to Sharia is often born out of a misunderstanding of its tenets or sheer religious bias. "If people want it, why should we deny them? Those who are shouting against it are simply intolerant of the beliefs and rights of others," Shittu was quoted as saying. He challenged his critics to respect the constitutional rights of Muslims to be governed by their own personal laws, just as other groups advocate for their specific interests.

The declaration has immediately drawn mixed reactions across the state, with political observers noting that religion has historically been a volatile instrument in Oyo politics. By bringing Sharia into the 2027 conversation, Shittu appears to be consolidating support among the conservative Muslim voting bloc, a strategy that could distinguish him in a crowded APC primary field. However, analysts warn that such a polarizing promise could alienate Christian voters and secularists who fear that the introduction of Sharia could disrupt the existing religious harmony in the state.

This controversial proposal is part of Shittu’s broader campaign to unseat the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In recent weeks, he has intensified his criticism of the current administration, accusing Governor Seyi Makinde of corruption and deception. As the race for the Agodi Government House heats up, Shittu’s readiness to play the religious card suggests that the upcoming election cycle may be fought not just on infrastructure and economy, but on the delicate fault lines of faith and identity.