The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, and other political leaders to listen to the growing frustrations of Nigerians and govern with compassion and justice.
Speaking in Abuja during the launch of the NASFAT History Book in commemoration of the organization’s 30th anniversary, the Sultan cautioned against responding to citizens’ grievances with repression, metaphorically urging leaders to drop the “koboko” (horsewhip) and instead engage with empathy and reassurance.
“Whatever problems you are having, whatever cries you are hearing, don’t carry koboko and wipe people,” he said. “Carry some soft hands and touch somebody and say, look, things will be okay.”
The religious leader’s comments come amid widespread hardship caused by government economic policies, including fuel subsidy removal and the floating of the naira, which have led to soaring inflation and rising cost of living.
He warned that no society can thrive without justice, stating, “A nation can endure with unbelief, but it cannot endure with injustice.” Emphasizing truth and accountability, he added, “Conscience is an open wound, only truth can heal it.”
Beyond governance, the Sultan also highlighted the pressing need for improved access to quality education for Nigerian youth and urged citizens to pray for their leaders instead of cursing them.
“Let’s pray for our leaders every time from Mr. President, to the governors, to local chairmen. If your leader does good things, you enjoy. If you mislead him, you suffer,” he noted.
He concluded by encouraging Nigerians to remain hopeful and turn to God, expressing confidence that current hardships will eventually pass. “When times are tough, tough people overcome. Allah will bring ease to this country,” he affirmed.
Earlier in the event, NASFAT President Alhaji Ayodeji Abdulrauf praised the Sultan and other dignitaries in attendance. He described the newly launched book as a powerful record of the organization’s 30-year journey—from humble prayer meetings in Lagos to a global faith-based movement impacting lives in over 360 locations worldwide.
“This book is not just a collection of stories it’s a testimony of vision, sacrifice, and unwavering faith that inspires generations,” Abdulrauf said.
