The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has dismissed reports linking him to an endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s potential reelection bid in 2027, declaring he holds no preference among presidential aspirants.
In a statement issued through his media aide, Prince Bashir Adefaka, the monarch described circulating social media claims as malicious fabrications designed to pull him into partisan politics. The reports had suggested the Sultan called on Nigerians to support Tinubu’s return to office.
“Our simple response to the report is that it is not possible for the Sultan, as the father of all, to make such a statement, either publicly or in any other forum,” the statement read. Abubakar emphasized that his position requires neutrality across political divides, making any endorsement — private or public — incompatible with his role.
The Sultan’s office characterized the false narrative as an unpatriotic attempt to exploit his influence for selfish interests. The statement reiterated that his doors remain open to all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation, a practice he has consistently maintained.
Abubakar, who serves as the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, holds significant moral authority across northern Nigeria and the broader Muslim community. His refusal to align with any candidate underscores the traditional institution’s effort to preserve its non-partisan standing amid intensifying political maneuvering ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The clarification comes as various political actors seek validation from influential traditional and religious leaders ahead of the 2027 general Elections. The Sultan’s explicit rejection of the endorsement narrative signals a determination to insulate the stool from electoral contestation.
