The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, has firmly dismissed recent claims suggesting that genocide is taking place in Nigeria, calling such reports baseless and politically motivated. Speaking during the 2025 General Assembly of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, the monarch urged anyone within or outside the country making such accusations to come forward with credible proof.
The Sultan, who also serves as the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), stated that while Nigeria faces serious security challenges, it is misleading and dangerous to label the situation as genocide. He emphasized that the use of such language can inflame tensions and undermine efforts toward peace and unity.
“I challenge anyone, whether within Nigeria or abroad, to provide evidence of any genocide happening in this country. Where did it happen? Who were the victims? We must stop spreading unfounded claims that divide our people,” the Sultan said.
A Call Against Misinformation and Social Media Propaganda
The revered monarch expressed deep concern over how social media has become a tool for misinformation and propaganda. He warned Nigerians to verify reports before sharing them online, stressing that many of the so-called genocide claims originate from unverified sources that aim to incite ethnic and religious conflict.
According to him, traditional rulers remain closely connected to their communities and would be among the first to know if targeted killings were taking place. He therefore urged citizens to trust local leadership structures rather than social media narratives.
“In every town and village, traditional rulers know their people. If there were any form of organized genocide, we would be the first to raise the alarm,” he stated.
Context and National Reaction
The Sultan's remarks come amid ongoing criticism from international organizations and advocacy groups claiming that Christian communities in parts of Nigeria's Middle Belt and North have been victims of systematic attacks. His statement has sparked wide debate across political and religious circles, with many applauding his stand for truth, while others insist the concerns should not be dismissed outright.
Security analysts say the Sultan's comments highlight the need for balanced reporting on Nigeria's crisis, noting that exaggeration of conflicts can worsen mistrust among ethnic and religious groups.
Call for Unity and Responsible Dialogue
In closing, the Sultan called for renewed national unity and responsible dialogue among leaders and citizens. He urged the media, civil society, and political actors to avoid sensational headlines that portray Nigeria as a country at war with itself.
“We must stop exporting lies about our nation. What we need is cooperation, not division,” he said.
The Sultan's address has since gone viral across social media, drawing mixed reactions from Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.
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