The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has expressed concern over alleged plans by Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, to undermine the authority of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar.
MURIC's Founder and Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, issued a statement citing rumors that the governor might soon take action against the Sultan using flimsy excuses similar to those employed in the recent dethronement of 15 traditional rulers.
The human rights organization highlighted the deteriorating relationship between the governor and the Sultan and warned against any attempts to dethrone the Sultan.
According to MURIC, such a move would be strongly opposed by Nigerian Muslims, as the Sultan holds both traditional and religious significance across the nation.
Professor Akintola stated, "Governor Ahmed Aliyu should not force Nigerian Muslims to take drastic measures.
The Sultan’s role as the spiritual head of all Nigerian Muslims and President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) is vital. Any governor who tampers with this position will face significant opposition."
He referenced the 1996 deposition of Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki by Colonel Yakubu Muazu, suggesting that similar actions by Governor Aliyu could lead to severe repercussions and a potential shift away from traditional rulers leading the NSCIA.
MURIC has called for the Sokoto State House of Assembly to amend the state's chieftaincy laws to exclude the Sultan from deposition powers. They urged Northern elites and Islamic scholars to intervene and prevent any action that could embarrass Nigerian Muslims.
"The power and influence of governors over traditional rulers have become too absolute. Nigerian Muslims deserve freedom from such arbitrary authority," Professor Akintola added. He emphasized that further attempts to depose the Sultan would not be tolerated.
Sources:
- [Vanguard](https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/04/sokoto-gov-dethrones-15-traditional-rulers-over-land-racketeering-other-offences/)
- [Daily Trust](https://dailytrust.com/muric-seek-immunity-for-sultan-from-deposition/)
- [Independent](https://independent.ng/sultan-of-sokoto-should-be-immune-from-deposition-group/)
