By Uzair Adam
His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity across Nigeria.
He also reiterated that traditional rulers are more troubled by the spate of killings than most politicians.
Speaking during the 7th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council held Tuesday in Maiduguri, the Sultan emphasized the collective resolve of traditional rulers to address security challenges through dialogue and collaboration.
“We are over 86 traditional rulers in the North, and we have come together to say enough is enough of the senseless killing of innocent people. We have made countless condemnations, but how many times must we speak out before real change happens?” he said.
He emphasized the need for sincerity and unity among political leaders, traditional institutions, and the citizenry to tackle insecurity effectively.
“Our role is not to compete with state governors but to support them. We feel the pain when our people are killed, and we are committed to advising our leaders and working together to bring an end to these attacks,” he added.
Addressing speculations on renewed Boko Haram activity, the Sultan prayed for divine strength to overcome the insurgency and urged the public to avoid ethnic or religious profiling in attributing criminal acts.
The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, represented by Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, opened the meeting, which had the theme “Enhanced Security As Panacea For Stability and Development of the North.”
Governor Zulum advocated for youth empowerment, warning that a lack of opportunities creates a fertile ground for radicalisation.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by AIG Kenechikwu Onwuemelie, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to working with traditional leaders to ensure safety in the region.
Meanwhile, Governor Zulum raised fresh alarms over the resurgence of Boko Haram in parts of Borno State, warning that recent attacks and the loss of military positions could reverse hard-won gains.
The Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al Amin El-Kanemi, also lamented that three local government areas remain under insurgent control, blaming infiltration by individuals posing as Islamic students or traders.
Despite assurances from the federal government, including Information Minister Mohammed Idris, that security agencies are working tirelessly, the recent wave of attacks has raised fears of renewed instability in the region.
A timeline of recent killings shows disturbing trends: from the April 14 massacre in Plateau State where over 40 people were killed, to the April 12 IED blast along Maiduguri–Damboa highway, and other violent incidents in Katsina, Borno, and beyond—underscoring the urgent need for coordinated action to halt the violence.