Lekki Chief Imam Calls for Shariah Courts in Lagos, Urges Muslims to Reject Opposing Candidates
LAGOS — The Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Sheikh Ridwan Jamiu, has urged Muslims to demand the establishment of Shariah courts in Lagos State and other parts of the Southwest, warning against voting for any governorship candidate who refuses to commit to this cause.
Speaking during his Jumaat sermon last Friday, Sheikh Jamiu emphasized that Shariah courts are long overdue in the region, stating that they would serve as Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms for Muslims in matters related to marriage, divorce, inheritance, and property laws.
“Elections are coming, and any governorship candidate seeking your vote must be committed to establishing Shariah courts. It is time we assert our constitutional rights,” he declared.
The cleric referenced Sections 38 and 40 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantee freedom of religion and association, arguing that the legal framework allows for the establishment of such courts.
According to Sheikh Jamiu, Shariah courts operate in northern Nigeria without interfering in the affairs of non-Muslims, and he insists that their implementation in the Southwest would be solely for Muslims.
“We have Shariah courts in the North, and they have not caused any harm to non-Muslims. It is not their concern; it is meant for Muslims alone,” he stressed.
Reiterating his stance, the Imam urged the Muslim community to hold political candidates accountable, stating that any gubernatorial candidate unwilling to support the implementation of Shariah courts should not be considered for votes.
His comments have sparked discussions on the role of religious law in governance, particularly in a diverse state like Lagos, where multiple faiths coexist.
