Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has dismissed claims regarding the establishment of a Sharia Court in the state, warning that no such court has been authorized.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Ogun State Government clarified that Sharia courts, which are prevalent in Northern Nigeria, cannot be established in the state without legal backing.
The government emphasized that only courts recognized by the Nigerian Constitution and state laws are permitted to operate.
The statement reaffirmed that the judiciary in Ogun State consists of legally established courts, including Magistrates’ Courts, High Courts, Customary Courts, the Customary Court of Appeal, the Federal High Court, the National Industrial Court, the Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court.
“No law in Ogun State has established a Sharia Court, and Sharia law is not part of the state’s legal framework,” the statement read.
While the government reiterated its commitment to religious freedom, it stressed that such freedoms do not extend to the creation of unauthorized institutions.
It warned that no individual or group has the legal right to constitute a court or administer justice without state approval.
Residents were urged to disregard any notices, summons, or documents linked to the alleged Sharia Court and to report any related activities to the authorities.
The government assured the public that it remains committed to upholding the rule of law and preventing any actions that could disrupt peace and order in the state.