Adebayo Shittu made the statement during an interview on “Naija Unfiltered” , a podcast produced by Symfoni.
He was reacting to recent discussions around plans by some groups to introduce Sharia law in parts of the South-West.
In his response, Shittu questioned why the idea of Sharia law should be seen as a problem for Christians.
“Let me ask you. How does Sharia law, if institutionalised, affect you as a Christian? How does it affect you negatively?” Shittu asked.
The interviewer replied by raising concerns about the activities of Hisbah operatives in some northern states, accusing them of violating human rights while enforcing Sharia law.
Shittu dismissed the concern, saying the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion.
The former minister accused critics of Sharia law of being intolerant toward religious practices.
“The constitution guarantees freedom of religion. You are talking out of intolerance for religion. You are very intolerant,” he responded.
When asked directly if he would bring Sharia law to Oyo State if elected governor in 2027, Shittu said he would do so only if the people demanded it.
He said: “If the people ask for it. Even the constitution says it should be established whenever it is demanded. It is open because the constitution allows it. I don’t run away from battles.
“A lot of people oppose Sharia, like you, out of intolerance. That is the truth. If there is Sharia in any community, no Christian can be forced to go under Sharia.”
The comments come amid ongoing debates that began in late 2024 after the Oyo State chapter of the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria announced plans to set up Sharia arbitration panels in the state.
KanyiDaily recalls that the move sparked widespread reactions both online and offline across the South-West.
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