The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has dismissed claims of genocide against any religious or ethnic group in Nigeria, insisting that no such atrocity has occurred anywhere in the country.
Speaking on Tuesday at the opening of the Northern Traditional Rulers Assembly Meeting in Birnin Kebbi, the Sultan challenged anyone making such allegations to provide verifiable evidence.
“There is no record of genocide in Nigeria — not against Christians, Muslims, or any group,” he said. “I challenge anyone, whether within the country or abroad, to show proof — where, who, and how it happened.”
The revered monarch, who also serves as the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), emphasised that traditional rulers are deeply connected to their communities and would always be aware if such incidents occurred.
“No person, whether Christian or Muslim, can be killed in any community without the knowledge of its traditional rulers,” he added.
Cautions Against Social Media Falsehoods
Sultan Sa’ad warned Nigerians against consuming or spreading misinformation on social media, describing many of the claims circulating online as “dangerous falsehoods.”
“Most of what people read on social media is not true. Nigerians must verify information before believing or sharing it,” he said, urging the Federal Government to introduce measures to regulate online activities and curb the spread of fake news.
Traditional Rulers Unite Against Insecurity
Explaining the purpose of the Northern Traditional Rulers Assembly, the Sultan said the conference was aimed at strengthening community collaboration and crafting homegrown solutions to insecurity in Northern Nigeria.
He commended Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris for hosting the meeting and expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, for attending despite his busy schedule.
The Sultan also urged Nigerians to continue to pray for their leaders and remain committed to national unity and peace, stressing that progress can only be achieved in an atmosphere of stability.
“Let us keep praying for our country and work together to ensure peace and harmony. Nigeria belongs to all of us,” he concluded.
