Godsent Ogbebor
Former Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola has called on Yoruba monarchs to embrace all religions in their domains, emphasizing the inclusive nature of Yoruba culture.
Aregbesola made the remark on Saturday during the turbaning ceremony of Mr. Mahmud Adesina (SAN) as the Wazeerul Muslimeen of Ifon-Orolu, Osun State.
He noted that true Yoruba monarchs are not confined to a single religion, as Yoruba tradition inherently promotes religious harmony. “Kings in Yorubaland don’t adhere to a single religion. No Yoruba king can be exclusively Muslim, Christian, or traditionalist unless the monarch is not truly Yoruba,” Aregbesola said.
He added, “A Yoruba monarch must participate in all religious practices, whether it’s the Egungun festival, Islamic prayers, or Christian celebrations. This reflects how Almighty God created the Yoruba people.”
The former Osun State Governor also praised the monarchs present at the event, stating that their inclusive approach aligns with Yoruba traditions. “This is how a Yoruba monarch should behave, engaging with all religions, whether Islam, Christianity, or traditional practices,” he said.
In his acceptance speech after being turbaned, Adesina advocated for the establishment of Sharia Courts of Appeal across Nigeria in line with constitutional provisions.
“We should advocate for the creation of Sharia Courts of Appeal in every state that requires them, in full compliance with Sections 275, 276, and 277 of the constitution,” Adesina said.
He explained that while some states have Sharia panels to resolve disputes among Muslims, they lack enforcement powers. “Such enforcement can only be achieved through the establishment of Sharia Courts of Appeal, as already outlined in our constitution,” he added.
