The Sokoto state government has advised Vice President Kashim Shettima to verify facts before commenting on sensitive national matters.
In response to the Vice President’s remarks at the Northwest Security Summit in Katsina on Monday, the state government stated that Vice President Shettima should have consulted Governor Ahmed Aliyu regarding the rumors about the alleged plan to depose Sultan Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar before making any public statements.
Governor Aliyu’s spokesman, Abubakar Bawa, issued a statement urging the Vice President to be well-informed on national issues before addressing them publicly.
“We sincerely expected the Vice President to have consulted the Governor before going public,” Bawa said. “As an elder statesman and a father to all, he should have facts and figures before commenting on issues raised by mischief-makers and unreliable social media sources known for negative propaganda.”
Bawa emphasized that there was no attempt to remove the Sultan and that no threats had been made against him. “The Sultan enjoys all the powers he is entitled to. We have not denied him any of his freedoms or rights.”
He continued, “We do not need to be reminded to guard, protect, and promote the Sultan. It is our sole responsibility. The government and people of Sokoto cherish and adore the sultanate council and will do everything possible to protect the dignity of this revered institution.”
The statement concluded by reassuring Nigerians that the Sokoto government will continue to safeguard the sultanate council and its dignity at all times.
