The Council of Imams and Ulama in Kaduna State has expressed strong disapproval of the alleged assault on the Sokoto Sultanate.
The Imams reaffirmed their unwavering support for the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar.
The council revealed this at a press briefing in Kaduna, monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday.
The council’s Secretary, Dr. Yusuf Arrigasiyyu, voiced the council’s concerns.
“We stand in solidarity with His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, and criticize any attempt to degrade or undermine the esteemed office,” said Arrigasiyyu in a statement on Sunday. “The Sultanate represents the collective identity and heritage of Nigerian Muslims, transcending state boundaries. We view any assault on the Sultanate as an attack on our collective dignity and faith. We urge all parties involved to sheath their swords and embrace peace, recognizing the Sultanate’s pivotal role in promoting unity, understanding, and harmony among Muslims and Nigerians. We call on the authorities to respect the Sultanate’s sanctity and historical significance, ensuring its continued role as a beacon of guidance and wisdom,” Arrigasiyyu added.
This comes after the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) raised alarms about an alleged plan by the Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, to depose the Sultan of Sokoto.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, speaking at a North-West Security Forum, emphasized the importance of the Sultan of Sokoto, stating, “The Sultan of Sokoto represents an idea that must be jealously guarded and projected for the nation’s growth.”
In response, the Sokoto State government denied the allegations, criticizing MURIC for what it described as unnecessary alarm. The state government also advised Shettima to verify his facts before making statements on sensitive national issues.
Amidst the controversy, the Sokoto Emirate Council Amendment Bill recently passed its first and second readings in the state House of Assembly. If enacted, the bill would require the Sultan to seek state government approval before appointing district heads.
