Senator Shehu Sani Urges Against Speculated Removal of Sultan of Sokoto
Senator Shehu Sani has called for restraint amidst speculations about Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State possibly removing the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, from his position. The senator emphasized the deep respect and high regard for the Sultan’s legacy, both within and beyond Sokoto State.
Concerns have been raised by the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) regarding the alleged plans to depose the Sultan. MURIC’s Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, voiced these concerns in a statement on Monday, June 24.
Tension Over Traditional Ruler Removals
The issue surfaces amid ongoing tensions related to the removal of several monarchs in Kano State. Governor Aliyu had previously dismissed 15 traditional rulers for various reasons. Akintola stressed that any attempt to dethrone the Sultan would be met with strong opposition from Nigerian Muslims.
“Reports suggest that the governor may target the Sultan of Sokoto next, using the same flimsy excuses used for the previous removals. MURIC advises the governor to reconsider. The Sultan’s position is not just traditional; it is also religious, with his jurisdiction extending across Nigeria as the spiritual leader of Nigerian Muslims,” Akintola said, as reported by Daily Trust.
Even though it’s a subject of speculation or conjecture,I appeal to the Governor of Sokoto State not to allow the viruses that infected the Kano emirate to infect the Sultanate.That Sultanate doesn’t belong to the people of Sokoto alone.We are stakeholders.
— Senator Shehu Sani (@ShehuSani) June 24, 2024
A Warning Against Provoking Nigerian Muslims
Akintola warned that any move against the Sultan could lead to significant backlash. He referenced past events, such as the deposition of Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki by military governor Col. Yakubu Muazu in 1996, to highlight the potential repercussions. Akintola cautioned that repeated undermining of the Sultan’s authority could force Nigerian Muslims to take drastic measures.
Senator Sani’s Plea for Caution
Senator Shehu Sani responded to the developments by urging Governor Aliyu to prevent the speculations from becoming reality. He highlighted the Sultan’s esteemed standing, stating, “Even though it’s a subject of speculation or conjecture, I appeal to the Governor of Sokoto State not to allow the issues that plagued the Kano emirate to affect the Sultanate. The Sultanate is not just for the people of Sokoto; we all are stakeholders.”
Senator Sani’s appeal underscores the broader significance of the Sultanate and the potential impact any such action could have on the larger Muslim community in Nigeria.
