By Damilola Adeleke

A coalition of Yoruba youths under the Yoruba Nation Youths banner has voiced strong opposition to the introduction of Sharia law or the establishment of Sharia courts in the Southwest region.

In a joint statement issued by its diaspora and home-based leaders, Mrs. Ayodele Ologunloluwa and Oyegunle Omotoyole, the group declared their readiness to protect their ancestral heritage against any attempts to destabilize their region, including the imposition of Sharia law.

This reaction comes on the heels of reports that the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria (Oyo State Chapter) has scheduled the inauguration of a Sharia court in Oyo town on January 11, 2025. The proposed event is slated to hold at the Muslim Community Islamic Centre, located at Oba Adeyemi High School Road, Mobolaje area, Agbogangan, Oyo.

Describing the move as “ridiculous,” the youths warned of potential resistance if the plan is not shelved.

The statement from the group reads:

“We will oppose any efforts to impose Sharia law or courts in Yoruba land. Yoruba traditions and customs are unique, and any attempt to introduce foreign laws will face strong opposition.

“We caution the Federal Government against actions that could create division in Yoruba land. Our priority remains the Yoruba Nation’s self-determination struggle, and we will not allow external forces to derail our focus.

“Instead of a Yoruba person bowing to Hausa-Fulani dominance, we believe it is more honorable to stand firm, even in the face of death.“Sharia law does not align with our cultural values, beliefs, or way of life. We will not permit any disruption to the peace of Yoruba land under the guise of religious imposition.

“We categorically reject any attempt to institutionalize practices that undermine our identity, faith, and values. We are fully prepared to resist such agendas.”