Governor Abiodun Stamps Out Sharia Court Plans in Ogun

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has issued a stern warning against any attempt to establish a Sharia Court in the state, emphasizing that such courts cannot be legally constituted without the proper legal framework.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Governor Abiodun addressed the circulation of a digital notice announcing the launch of a Sharia Court in Ogun State, clarifying that no Sharia Court is authorized to operate within the state.

He underscored that only courts established under the legal framework of the Nigerian Constitution are recognized, including Magistrates’ Courts, the High Court, Customary Courts, Customary Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, National Industrial Court, Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court.

“The Ogun State Government has noted the circulation of a digital notice announcing the launch of a Shari’ah Court in Ogun State,” Abiodun stated.

“No Sharia Court is authorized to operate within Ogun State. The courts that are legally empowered to adjudicate disputes arising within Ogun State are those established by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria or by State Laws.”

Governor Abiodun further stressed that Sharia law does not form part of the legal framework governing the state, asserting that the state government upholds and protects the rights of individuals to practice their religion freely but draws the line at unauthorized institutions.

“The Ogun State Government recognizes the freedom of individuals to practice their religion or to subscribe to no religion,” he continued. “However, this freedom does not extend to the formation of unauthorized assemblies or institutions. No individual or group is legally permitted to constitute a court or present themselves to the public as a court without legal backing.”

The governor directed those behind the illegal Sharia Court notice to immediately cease their activities and disband the unauthorized entity, warning that they have no legal standing to administer justice.

“The Ogun State Government hereby directs that all persons involved in the creation or operation of this unauthorized court must immediately cease all related activities and disband the illegal entity and all its apparatus,” Abiodun added.

He also urged the public to disregard any summons, documents, or individuals associated with the illegal court, advising that such matters be promptly reported to the authorities.

Abiodun concluded by reaffirming the state’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining the integrity of Ogun’s legal and judicial framework, stressing that the government will prevent any disruption of law and order.