“Vote Out Candidates Who Oppose Shariah,” LEMU Imam Tells Lagos Voters

Sheikh Ridwan Jamiu, the Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, has called on Muslims to vote against any governorship candidate who refuses to commit to establishing Shariah courts in the state. Speaking during the Jumaat sermon at Lekki Central Mosque last Friday, Dr. Jamiu emphasized the need for accountability on this issue as elections approach.

He highlighted that the Nigerian Constitution supports religious freedom and association, referencing Sections 38 and 40. According to him, Shariah courts serve as an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism, addressing issues such as marriage, divorce, child custody, inheritance, and property law. Citing Section 177 of the Constitution, he asserted that states have the legal backing to establish such courts.

The Imam argued that Shariah courts are long overdue in the Southwest and should be established across the region, just as they exist in the North without affecting non-Muslims. He urged the Muslim community to assert their constitutional rights, stating that candidates unwilling to support the creation of Shariah courts should not receive their votes.