‘Those Who Want Sharia Law in Yorubaland Are Pursuing Self-Interest, Displacement of Yoruba Islamic Leaders’ – Mudeeru Markaz

February 06, 2025

By Adedoja Adesoji

The Mudeeru of Markaz Agege, Sheik Muhammad Habeebulahi Adam Alilory, has expressed his views on the introduction of Sharia law in Yorubaland, rejected the establishment in South West (SW).

In an interview obtained by TYT, the Shiek revealed that those advocating for Sharia in SW are driven by self-interest and a desire to displace Yoruba Islamic leaders.

Sheik Alilory shared his insights on Sharia law, its practice in Nigeria, and the implications of introducing Sharia courts in the South West.

He emphasized that Sharia law has been in existence in Nigeria since before colonial times, but its recognition varies across regions.

“Sharia is practiced in SW in line with wedding ceremony, naming ceremony and lots more. In a customary court, the 3 major religion heads are present and judgements are passed based on beliefs anyone identifies with, which majorly happens in SW but not in Northern part of the country.

“It is believed that the northern part of Nigeria ends at Ilorin, which is why there’s no customary court in ilorin, but they have Sharia court. In yorubaland Oyo, Osun, Ogun all have customary courts.” He explained.

Sheik Alilory highlighted that the call for Sharia courts in Yorubaland is not new, dating back to 1978 when a prominent leader in Nigeria advocated and pushed for its inclusion in the constitution.

However, he questioned the motivations behind this advocacy, suggesting that it was driven by a desire to overthrow Yoruba leaders.

The Mudeeru of Markaz Agege also noted that some individuals are passionate about religion but lack knowledge, and are still regarded as scholars.

He emphasized that in Islam, anyone can claim to be a leader without knowledge, but this is not acceptable in other professions, such as law.

“Some are passionate about religion but do not have the knowledge and they’re regarded as scholars. In Islam, anyone can claim to be a leader without knowledge.” He said.

Sheik Alilory concluded by stating that Ogun, Oyo, Ekiti, and Ondo have rejected Sharia courts to avoid chaos in the land.