Thousands of Ekiti Indigenes Rally Against Sharia Law, Declaring 'No Sharia in Ekiti State

Thousands of Ekiti Indigenes Rally Against Sharia Law, Declaring 'No Sharia in Ekiti State

ADO EKITI, NIGERIA- In a powerful display of unity and resistance, thousands of Ekiti indigenes took to the streets on Tuesday to protest the recent inauguration of an Independent Sharia Arbitration Panel in their state. The demonstrators, armed with placards bearing messages like "No Sharia in Yorubaland" and "Sharia will cause war," voiced their strong opposition to the introduction of Sharia law in Ekiti.

A Peaceful Protest

The protest, organized by the Yoruba Regional Alliance Worldwide in collaboration with other Yoruba self-determination organizations, began at the Adebayo area of Ado Ekiti. The demonstrators, however, were prevented from moving around the streets by the police, who aimed to avoid any potential crisis. Despite this, the protesters remained peaceful and resolute in their message.

Voices of Dissent

Addressing the crowd, Mr. Opeoluwa Akinola, the leader of the Yoruba Regional Alliance Worldwide, condemned the move to introduce Sharia law in Yorubaland. He argued that the Yoruba people, irrespective of their religions, have co-existed peacefully for generations without the Sharia Penal Code. Akinola questioned the necessity of Sharia law, pointing out that the existing penal codes and legal systems in Yorubaland have been effective in maintaining harmony.

Akinola called on all Yoruba Muslim organizations, Christian associations, traditional worshipers, and Ifa adherents to join the protest and reject the imposition of Sharia law. He emphasized that the introduction of Sharia law would disrupt the age-old harmonious relationships among the Yoruba people. The protesters echoed this sentiment, declaring that Sharia law has no place in Ekiti State.

The Ekiti State government has yet to respond to the protest, but the controversy surrounding the inauguration of the Sharia panel continues to grow. The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has expressed support for the establishment of the panel, arguing that it is a voluntary platform designed solely for the resolution of civil disputes among consenting Muslims. However, critics remain unconvinced, citing concerns about the potential impact on the region's cultural heritage and social harmony.

As the debate over Sharia law in Ekiti State rages on, the voices of the protesters continue to resonate. Their message is clear: "No Sharia in Ekiti State." The outcome of this conflict will undoubtedly shape the future of the region and its people.