By Kayode Emola
Despite repeated calls for Yoruba politicians to intervene in the Sharia debacle, evidence has shown that they are the architects of our Sharia problems in Yorubaland. A few days ago, the Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde stated that his government is not against the setting up of a Sharia panel in Oyo State.
Seyi Makinde in his submission stated that members of the public can approach the Sharia Panel if they feel like doing so. With this statement, the Governor is making the Sharia law which is a religious code an alternative dispute resolution in Oyo State and invariably in Yorubaland.
Seyi Makinde should understand that the introduction of Sharia law is not just about alternate dispute resolution but a conquest agenda being peddled by the Fulani north. If Seyi Makinde needs a history lecture on Sharia law in Nigeria, he should see what is unravelling in northern Nigeria.
There are currently 12 states in Northern Nigeria practicing Sharia law, but they have no development to show for it. Nearly all the Northern states where Sharia law is being practiced have been overrun by the Fulani and Boko Haram militias.
The last thing anyone need in Yorubaland is a religious code to serve as a means of conflict resolution. There are many kabiyesi in Yoruba with palaces dotted everywhere in Yorubaland. These palaces can serve as an alternative dispute resolution centre if the need arises and not the Sharia law.
Just a few days ago, the militant group Boko Haram and ISWAP invaded the army barracks in Wajikoro area of Borno state, killing over 16 soldiers, including the Brigade commander, and wounding many others. A report from the pilot sent to provide air cover for the soldiers shows that a lot of them could be seen running away from the barracks, meaning that they are being dislodged by the terrorist group.
We can recall that a similar incident occurred in a military base in Damboa area of Borno State on January 4, 2025, where no fewer than 6 soldiers were killed. We must not forget that it was the introduction of Sharia law that gave birth to the militant group Boko Haram. If the Nigerian military, who are supposed to defend the nation, are not able to defend themselves, what hope does the civilian population have?
We cannot be oblivious to the fact that those Yoruba Muslims peddling the introduction of the Sharia law on behalf of their slave masters in Yorubaland are doing it for the financial reward they have been promised. These lots are ready to sell their heritage for the little pittance that will not benefit their race nor themselves.
Therefore, we Yoruba must understand that the only way we can get rid of this menace is to fully exit from Nigeria. If we don’t unite to pursue the total liberation of Yorubaland from Nigeria, then attacks on military barracks and civilians by terrorists will be the new norm.
If we truly want our freedom, this is the time to come together and act in unison to synchronise our activities for our liberation. We on the liberation struggle must now embark on a wholesale education of our people about our activities for the liberation of Yorubaland. Nigeria has shown time and again that it is not going to be what we wish it to be; therefore, we do not need to pretend that it will ever get better.
