PeakNews Online
Katsina, Nigeria — Vice-President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the importance of protecting and promoting His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto, during the ongoing North West Peace & Security Summit, currently being broadcast live from Katsina State.
Addressing the summit, Vice-President Shettima highlighted the pivotal role of the Sultan in national development and unity. “In all developmental issues in this country, His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, serves as a key figure. I want to use him as a point of reference to recognize and appreciate all our royal fathers present here,” Shettima stated.
He directed a specific message to the Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, underscoring the Sultan’s significance. “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,” Shettima urged.
The Vice-President’s remarks came after Professor Isiaq Akintola, the Executive Director of the Muslim Rights Council (MURIC), raised concerns about a purported plot by the Sokoto State government to depose the Sultan. These allegations followed the recent deposition of 15 traditional rulers by Governor Ahmed Aliyu for various offenses.
Vice-President Shettima’s appeal highlights the broader context of preserving traditional institutions and leaders, particularly in a region facing significant security and developmental challenges. The North West Peace & Security Summit aims to address these issues by fostering dialogue and cooperation among various stakeholders, including government officials, traditional leaders, and civil society groups.
The summit continues to attract attention, with live broadcasts ensuring that the discussions and resolutions reach a wide audience, further emphasizing the critical nature of the topics being addressed and the high-profile endorsements from national leaders.
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