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A civil society organisation, the Arewa Peace and Development Forum (APDF), has criticized the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for what it described as selective commentary on sensitive national issues.
The group accused the revered monarch of failing to publicly address issues regarding former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, during his protracted legal battles, while allegedly speaking on issues related to former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
The Sultan has reportedly asked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to release El-Rufai or formally charge him in court.
But in a statement released by its coordinator, Malam Ibrahim Mohammed Musawa, the APDF expressed concern over what it called a “worrying silence” on the Dasuki case, noting that the former NSA, who hails from Sokoto, had been at the center of the national discourse on the rule of law and due process.
“It is surprising that the Sultan has not found it necessary to speak publicly on the Sambo Dasuki issue, which has far-reaching implications for justice, governance and the rule of law,” the statement read.
“However, there appears to be a willingness to comment on personalities such as El-Rufai, raising questions about fairness and objectivity.”
The forum highlighted that the Sultan, as a highly respected traditional and religious leader, occupies a unique position that requires balance, neutrality and consistency, especially when addressing politically sensitive issues.
He added that leaders of his stature should serve as moral compasses in times of national uncertainty, urging him to take a more inclusive and non-selective approach in his public interventions.
While acknowledging the Sultan’s long-standing contribution to peacebuilding and interreligious harmony, the group warned that perceived selective silence could erode public trust in traditional institutions.
The APDF also called on the monarch to clarify his position on the issues raised and to ensure his statements reflect the wider national interest.
The development comes amid intense political debate across the country, with increased scrutiny of the roles of prominent individuals and institutions in shaping conversations about governance, accountability and justice.
