Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for heightened security measures to ensure the safety of Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the revered leader and symbol of national unity in Sokoto State. Speaking at the North-West peace and security summit in Katsina State, Shettima stressed the importance of safeguarding the Sultan’s well-being, recognizing his significant role in promoting peace and stability across Nigeria.
Addressing the Deputy Governor of Sokoto, Shettima referred to the Sultan as an esteemed figure who transcends mere traditional leadership. He described the Sultan as an institution that demands utmost protection and promotion for the betterment of the nation.
This call comes in response to alarming reports by the Muslim Rights Council (MURIC) regarding an alleged plot by the Sokoto government to depose the Sultan. MURIC expressed opposition to any such action, highlighting the Sultan’s religious and national significance. The organization cautioned the governor against tampering with the Sultan’s position, which extends beyond Sokoto and encompasses the entire country as the spiritual head of Nigerian Muslims.
MURIC’s concern arose following the recent removal of 15 traditional rulers by Governor Ahmed Aliyu for various offenses. The organization warned that similar flimsy excuses might be used to target the Sultan, urging the governor to carefully consider the potential consequences of such actions.
The Sultan of Sokoto holds a vital role in Nigerian society, promoting peace, unity, and religious harmony. As an influential leader, his eminence extends beyond regional boundaries, making him a unifying force across the nation. His position combines the traditional authority of the Sultanate with the significant responsibility of serving as the President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA).
Vice President Shettima’s call for the protection and preservation of the Sultan emphasizes the need to respect and uphold the Sultan’s institution, ensuring its continuity for the greater good of Nigeria. As the nation strives for peace and development, it is imperative to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions made by esteemed leaders like the Sultan of Sokoto.
In response to these concerns, it is expected that the Sokoto State government will prioritize the Sultan’s safety and security, reaffirming their commitment to preserving the Sultanate’s legacy and its role in fostering national unity and harmony.
The plea by Vice President Shettima serves as a reminder of the Sultan’s importance as a symbol of unity and peace, urging all Nigerians to rally together in protecting and promoting his esteemed position.
