The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has raised alarm over an alleged plan by Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, to depose the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III. This comes after the governor recently removed 15 traditional rulers in the state for various offenses.
In a statement, MURIC’s Executive Director, Prof. Isiaq Akintola, expressed concern over the potential move, stating that Nigerian Muslims reject any thought of deposing the Sultan. Akintola emphasized the Sultan’s role as not only traditional but also religious, extending beyond Sokoto to cover all Nigerian Muslims as their spiritual head.
MURIC warned Governor Aliyu against taking any action that may provoke Nigerian Muslims, citing historical precedent. The organization advised the governor to consider the implications of his actions and to respect the Sultan’s position as a symbol of unity and spirituality for Nigerian Muslims.