The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence and killings across the country, saying traditional rulers are more worried about the bloodshed than many politicians.
Speaking at the 7th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council in Maiduguri, Borno State, the Sultan decried the worsening insecurity, especially in the North, and called for decisive action by political leaders and security agencies.
“We’ve condemned these killings multiple times, yet the violence persists. It’s time our political leaders and security agencies act decisively to curb this madness,” he said.
With over 86 traditional rulers in attendance, the Sultan urged unity and proactive involvement among northern traditional leaders, stressing that their role in ensuring peace and stability remains vital.
He clarified that traditional rulers are not competing with political office holders but are committed to complementing their efforts in securing communities.
“We are not in competition with governors or any political office holders. Our role is to support and collaborate with them in securing our communities,” he added.
Citing recent attacks in Plateau, Sokoto, and Kebbi States, the Sultan described the killings as “alarming and unacceptable,” and warned against politicizing or ethnicizing the crisis.
“Criminals have no tribe or religion. Bad people exist in every community, and we must not allow division to distract us from finding solutions,” he said.
He called on government officials, religious leaders, and citizens to work together sincerely, adding, “Insecurity is a global issue, yes, but we must act locally and urgently. We can’t sit back and watch our people continue to die.”
