The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Mohammad Abubakar II, has dismissed claims that traditional rulers are intimidated by governors,Daily Trust reports.
Speaking at a Stakeholders’ Roundtable on Northern Nigerian Youth Development, organized by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Abuja on Tuesday, the Sultan emphasized the enduring significance of traditional rulers in Nigeria’s history and governance.
He clarified that traditional leaders have been central to the country’s administration long before Nigeria’s independence in 1960. “We are not afraid of governors,” he stated. “Traditional rulers simply uphold respect for themselves and for governors, who hold authority in the states. It is not about fear but respect.”
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This remark was in response to a comment by former Niger State Governor, Babangida Aliyu, who suggested that traditional rulers are fearful of governors.
The Sultan added, “We trust in Almighty Allah and accept changes as they come. Before the emergence of governors, our institutions had been governing what is now Nigeria since 1914. Our role is deeply rooted, and we have a stronger connection with our people. We remain honest and steadfast in serving them, regardless of the challenges.”
