EbonyHeraldNews 24 Ebony Herald News24
Dethronement rumours: Grand Imam, Yayi-Akorede, urges respect for Sultan of Sokoto
.. Cautions perpetrators
The Grand Imam of Akure Kingdom in Ondo State, His Eminence, Sheikh Abdulhakeem Yayi-Akorede, has described the
recent rumour about the Sokoto State government’s plans to dethrone the esteemed Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, as deeply concerning and worrisome.
The revered Islamic Cleric, however, urged politicians behind the inglorious move to reconsider their planned intentions before it is too late.
Yayi-Akorede’s position was contained in a statement he personally signed on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 and made available to the public.
According to him;, “While the Sultan holds the title of Sultan of Sokoto, it is essential to understand that he serves as the Supreme Leader of over 100 million Muslims in Nigeria.
“This is a significant role, and it would be a grave mistake for any politician in Sokoto State to be associated with the loss of such a privilege.
“The Sultan is a leader who commands respect from all quarters. He is a traditional leader, a highly regarded religious figure in Nigeria, and a global representative as the Co-President of the World Religions for Peace Headquarters in New York.
“We, therefore, advise the Sokoto State government and all those involved in this consideration of dethrone mental, to respect the office and throne of the Sultan.
“Since the day he was turbaned, he has represented the entire Muslim Ummah, the largest religious community in Nigeria.
“It is unthinkable that any politician in this government, regardless of their faith, would want to risk losing this esteemed position.
“I call upon the Muslim Ummah in Yoruba Land and across the nation to fast and pray for the Sultan, so that those who seek to disrupt the peace, unity, and development of Sokoto and Nigeria will not succeed in their plans.
“May Almighty Allah continue to support and guide him. Amin”, the statement concluded.
It would be recalled, that the Executive Director of the Muslim Rights Council, Prof. Isiaq Akintola, raised the alarm that the Sokoto State government was planning to depose the Sultan.
Akintola also cited the removal of 15 traditional rulers for various offences by Governor Aliyu in April.
He warned that Nigerian Muslims would reject any hostile actions against Sultan, who is the Nigerian Muslim spiritual leader.
The warning by MURIC came against the backdrop of the removal of the Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, by the Kano State governor in May.
