Sharia alien to Yoruba culture, religious belief — Gani Adams

*Says fanatics aim to destabilise Yoruba land

THE Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, yesterday, condemned an attempt to introduce Sharia in the Southwest, stating that it is alien to Yoruba culture and religious beliefs. 

Speaking at the 2025 Oodua festival, held at Enuwa Square, Ile-Ife in Osun State, Adams stressed that the introduction of Sharia is aimed at destabilising the Yoruba land by religious fanatics and fundamentalists. 

He emphasized that while Saudi Arabia is an Islamic kingdom where Sharia aligns with religious teachings and  accepted, Nigeria remains a nation where the constitution guarantees freedom of religion.

He said: "Saudi Arabia is a good example of an Islamic kingdom that practises Sharia law according to the Holy Quran. The Saudis also adhere strictly to the law, and they are happy because Sharia law is in tandem with their religious beliefs and teachings. 

"However, Nigeria is a secular nation where the constitution allows every citizen to practise whatever religion they believe in freely without any intimidation.

"Sharia law is alien to our culture and religious beliefs in Yoruba land, therefore, those religious fanatics masquerading as Muslims should stay away from acts that could set a Yoruba land on fire."

Speaking on the influx of ISWAP members in the South West, Adams urged the federal and state governments to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity in the region. 

He, however, said the Oodua People's Congress, OPC, would partner with other security groups in curbing the scourge in Yoruba land.