The Sokoto State House of Assembly has passed a bill through its first and second readings that aims to amend the Sokoto Emirate Council law, potentially stripping the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, of significant powers.
If enacted, the amendment would remove the Sultan’s authority to appoint kingmakers and district heads without government approval, among other changes. This legislative move comes a day after the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) raised concerns about a purported plan by Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, to depose the Sultan.
Prof. Isiaq Akintola, MURIC’s Executive Director, voiced alarm in a statement on Monday, highlighting the Sultan of Sokoto’s dual role as both a traditional and religious leader for all Nigerian Muslims. This development follows the controversial deposition of several monarchs in Kano State, adding to the tension.
Governor Aliyu has previously removed 15 traditional rulers for various offenses, further fueling speculation. However, Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Peoples Democratic Party have both cautioned against any alleged plans to dethrone the Sultan.
In response to the allegations, the Sokoto State government has denied any intent to remove the monarch. State Commissioner for Information, Sambo Danchadi, described the accusations as false and reiterated that the laws governing the appointment of traditional rulers in the state remain unchanged.
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