The Sokoto State Government has dismissed rumors that Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration intends to depose the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.
In a statement released on Tuesday, government spokesman Abubakar Bawa condemned what he called a campaign to tarnish the relationship between the state government and the Sultanate Council.
Advertorial
The denial comes after the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) alleged a plot by the state government to dethrone the Sultan. Vice President Kashim Shettima, addressing the issue at the North-West Peace and Security Summit in Katsina State on Monday, emphasized the importance of the Sultanate as an institution that must be protected and respected.
“In all developmental issues in this country, His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, I want to use him as a point of reference to recognize and appreciate all our royal fathers present here,” Shettima said. “And to the deputy governor of Sokoto, I have a simple message for you. Yes, the Sultan is the Sultan of Sokoto, but he is much more than that; he represents an idea, he is an institution, that all of us in this country need to jealously guard, protect, promote, preserve and project for the growth of our nation.”
Advertorial
In its response, the Sokoto State Government described MURIC’s accusations as baseless, assuring the Muslim community that there is no plot to dethrone the Sultan, who also serves as the President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA).
Bawa stated, “The present administration, like its predecessors, cherishes and respects the Sultanate Council long before MURIC was established. The Sultanate Council, with its longstanding historical importance, is revered by all the people of Sokoto State. Therefore, we hold the institution in very high regard and esteem.”
Advertorial
Bawa further emphasized the cordial relationship between Governor Aliyu’s administration and the Sultanate Council, noting that the government frequently consults with the Sultan on state matters and values his input in policy decisions.
Addressing recent actions involving district heads, Bawa explained, “The affected District Heads were accused of behaviors such as land racketeering, aiding insecurity, and insubordination. A committee was formed to investigate, and based on their recommendations, the government acted in the public interest.”
The statement concludes by reiterating the government’s respect for the Sultanate Council and denying any intentions to undermine its leadership.
