20 Years After ADC Crash, Sultan Maccido Family Calls for Aviation Safety Reforms, National Unity
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
The family of the late Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Maccido, has called for improved aviation safety and stricter accountability among regulatory agencies as it commemorates the 20th anniversary of the ADC Airlines Flight 053 crash that killed 96 people.
The family also appealed to Nigerians to promote peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance and dialogue as the country continues to grapple with insecurity, communal tensions and social divisions.
The appeal was contained in a statement issued on Sunday and signed by Bello Maccido to mark the anniversary of the October 29, 2006, air disaster, which occurred shortly after the aircraft took off from Abuja.
The crash claimed the lives of 96 people, including the late Sultan, his son, Senator Badamasi Maccido, and his grandson.
According to the family, the anniversary presents an opportunity for the country to reflect on the tragedy and take practical steps to prevent similar disasters in the future.
It urged aviation authorities to strengthen safety regulations, improve oversight and ensure that agencies responsible for enforcing aviation standards are held accountable for their duties.
“Let this twentieth remembrance be more than an occasion for mourning” the statement said, urging Nigerians to work collectively towards a peaceful, just and united society.
The family noted that the late Sultan’s legacy extended beyond his traditional position, highlighting his commitment to consultation, dialogue, national cohesion and service to humanity.
It said these values remained particularly important at a time when Nigeria was facing serious security and social challenges.
“At a time when our nation faces serious security and social challenges, the ideals our father stood for remain as relevant as ever,” the family stated.
It further urged political leaders, religious institutions and community stakeholders to embrace dialogue and mutual understanding as tools for resolving disagreements and reducing tensions.
Maccido ascended the throne as the 19th Sultan of Sokoto in April 1996 and served as President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs. He was known for his involvement in efforts to promote religious moderation and interfaith relations.
Born in 1926 in Dange, Sokoto State, he was the son of Sultan Abubakar III and a descendant of Sheikh Usman dan Fodio. Before becoming Sultan, he served in public administration, including as Presidential Liaison Officer in Sokoto State.
During his reign, he supported initiatives in education, healthcare and interfaith engagement, as well as campaigns against polio and HIV/AIDS.
The family also cited former President Shehu Shagari’s assessment of the late monarch as a leader who valued patience and consultation.
“He does not rush or dictate things” Shagari was quoted as saying.
The statement said Maccido was travelling to Abuja to attend a Presidential Forum on Education when the ADC Airlines Boeing 737 crashed on October 29, 2006.
As the 20th anniversary approaches, the family called on Nigerians to honour the victims by turning the lessons of the tragedy into meaningful action, particularly in strengthening aviation safety and ensuring accountability.
It also urged Nigerians to sustain the late Sultan’s legacy by promoting religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and unity across the country.
