The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has voiced his support for the introduction of Shari’ah law in the South West region of Nigeria. The monarch made his position known during a recent public address, emphasizing that Shari’ah law would promote moral discipline and justice in the region. He urged political and religious leaders to consider the implementation of Shari’ah, highlighting its potential to address social vices and foster societal harmony.
Oba Akanbi argued that Shari’ah law is not exclusive to Muslims but is designed to create a just and peaceful society for everyone. According to him, adopting the legal framework would help reduce crime rates, improve public morality, and instill a sense of accountability among citizens. He further stressed that the law could coexist with existing legal systems in the country without causing conflict.
The monarch also called on the Federal Government to support the South West in considering such reforms. He pointed out that regions such as the North, where Shari’ah is practiced, have seen significant improvements in certain aspects of governance and social order. Oba Akanbi urged stakeholders to explore how the legal system could be adapted to fit the unique cultural and religious diversity of the South West.
While the Oluwo’s endorsement has drawn commendation from some quarters, it has also sparked criticism. Critics argue that Nigeria’s secular constitution may not support the implementation of religious laws in a region as diverse as the South West. They also fear that such a move could lead to division and alienation among non-Muslims in the area.
In response, the Oluwo assured detractors that his advocacy for Shari’ah is rooted in his desire for a better society. He called for an open dialogue to address any concerns and emphasized the need for collaboration among traditional, political, and religious leaders in determining the best path forward for the region.
