The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has strongly dismissed ongoing claims of genocide in Nigeria, urging both local and international observers to present verifiable and concrete evidence if such allegations are to be taken seriously. Speaking during the official opening session of the Northern Traditional Rulers Assembly Meeting (Kebbi 2025), held in Birnin Kebbi, the revered monarch emphasized that there has been no coordinated or systematic extermination of any ethnic or religious group within the country.
The Sultan, who also serves as the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), made it clear that Nigeria’s challenges — including insecurity and communal clashes — should not be misconstrued or exaggerated as acts of genocide. He insisted that while violence and criminality exist in certain regions, there is no credible evidence suggesting that any specific group is being targeted for total elimination.
No Evidence of Genocide, Sultan Insists
Reaffirming his position, the Sultan stated that the use of the term “genocide” to describe Nigeria’s security situation is not only misleading but also dangerous, as it can fuel division and distrust among citizens. He urged those spreading such narratives to back their claims with authentic data and verifiable facts rather than emotional or politically motivated rhetoric.
“There is no way someone, whether a Muslim or a Christian, can be killed without the knowledge of the traditional rulers of the community where such a person belongs,” he said. “If anyone claims there is genocide happening in Nigeria, such a person must bring forward evidence that can stand public scrutiny.”
The Sultan reiterated that traditional rulers, as custodians of peace in their various communities, are often among the first to be aware of any incident of violence or unrest. Therefore, he said, it would be impossible for widespread killings to occur without their knowledge or without being promptly reported to higher authorities.
He further challenged foreign organizations, international media outlets, and human rights bodies that have echoed such claims to visit affected regions and verify information firsthand rather than relying on hearsay or unverified social media posts.
Warning Against Misinformation on Social Media
The Sultan also expressed deep concern about the increasing role of social media in spreading misinformation, fake news, and divisive narratives. He noted that several false reports shared online have been responsible for creating unnecessary panic, hatred, and suspicion among Nigerians from different backgrounds.
“Most of the information posted on social media is not true. People must verify such information before accepting it as fact,” he said. “We must be careful not to destroy our own country by spreading unverified news that only serves the interests of those who want to divide us.”
The monarch called on social media users to exercise responsibility and discipline when sharing sensitive information, emphasizing that false news about violence or ethnic clashes often inflames existing tensions and could lead to further conflict if left unchecked.
Call for Government Regulation
As part of his recommendations, the Sultan appealed to the Federal Government to introduce stricter measures to regulate social media platforms operating within Nigeria. According to him, the unrestrained use of social media has become a national concern, as it is increasingly being used to propagate falsehoods and cause societal unrest.
“The government must not remain silent while social media continues to mislead millions of citizens,” he urged. “Proper monitoring and regulation, combined with digital literacy education, can help minimize the spread of falsehood and hate speech.”
He also advised media houses, journalists, and content creators to uphold the ethics of responsible reporting by ensuring that every piece of information they publish is fact-checked and verified to prevent the spread of harmful misinformation that can destabilize the country.
Strengthening Community Collaboration
Speaking about the significance of the Northern Traditional Rulers Assembly Meeting, the Sultan explained that the gathering was convened to foster deeper collaboration among traditional institutions and to deliberate on sustainable strategies for addressing insecurity, poverty, and youth unemployment across Northern Nigeria.
He emphasized that traditional rulers play a vital role in maintaining grassroots peace and harmony, noting that their influence within local communities remains unmatched when it comes to conflict resolution and social cohesion. The Sultan added that the meeting would allow leaders from various states to share successful community-based solutions that can be replicated elsewhere in the region.
The monarch commended Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, for hosting the high-level event and acknowledged his efforts in promoting peace and development in the state. He also expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, for attending the assembly despite his tight military schedule, describing his presence as a testament to the importance of cooperation between the military and traditional authorities in the fight against insecurity.
“We appreciate the Chief of Defence Staff for finding time to attend this important gathering. His presence here shows a shared commitment between traditional rulers and the security sector to restore lasting peace and stability across our region,” the Sultan stated.
Concluding his remarks, the Sultan of Sokoto urged Nigerians from all walks of life to continue praying for the nation’s unity and for the wisdom of its leaders. He reminded citizens that peace and progress can only be achieved through mutual respect, understanding, and truthful communication.
“Let us all work together, remain truthful to one another, and pray for Nigeria. This country belongs to all of us — Christians, Muslims, and people of all ethnic backgrounds. We must continue to promote peace, stability, and unity so that future generations can inherit a stronger, more united nation,” he concluded.