Sultan of Sokoto Calls for Ceasefire in EndBadGovernance Protests
Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has issued a plea to the organizers of the EndBadGovernance protests and other key stakeholders to put aside their differences and come to the negotiating table to engage in constructive dialogue. In a statement issued on Thursday, the president-general of Jama’atu Nasril Islam, JNI, warned of the dangers of letting the protests escalate and urged those involved to exercise patience and understanding.
Mr. Abubakar expressed fear that the protests may quickly spiral out of control, with grave consequences for not only Nigeria, but also the entire West African subregion. He also quoted a Qur’anic passage, "When the suffering reached them from us, why then did they not learn humility?" (Qur’an 6:43), emphasizing the importance of humbling oneself during times of tribulation.
The Sultan urged Nigerian leaders to come together in a show of unity and cooperation to address the current challenges facing the nation. He implored Imams to encourage their congregations to make supplications and prayers for Allah’s intervention, which he believed would provide a swift resolution to the crisis. President Bola Tinubu, Sultan Abubakar specifically, and state governors were called upon to address the nation and provide assurance of peace, security, stability, and food security.
Throughout the statement, Sultan Abubakar emphasized the need for sustained supplications and prayers, highlighting that it was through such spiritual endeavors that Allah’s intervention descends with full assurance. He reminded Muslims of the importance of introspection and encouraging more Dhikr, remembrance of Allah, for ease and relief in trying moments.
By issuing this call to action, Sultan Abubakar has undoubtedly taken a proactive step towards finding a lasting solution to the crises plaguing Nigeria. As Nigerians navigate the ongoing challenges, the importance of unity, cooperation, and spiritual guidance has never been more poignant.
