Sultan of Sokoto Dismisses ‘Islamisation’ Claims, Urges Religious Harmony
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has again dismissed claims of a supposed “Islamisation” agenda in Nigeria, describing such narratives as unfounded and capable of deepening divisions among citizens.
Speaking on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the First Triennial Meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council in Abuja, the Sultan stressed that there is no deliberate effort by Muslims to dominate or undermine Christians in the country.
He noted that Islam and Christianity coexist in Nigeria as part of a divine arrangement, urging adherents of both faiths to embrace peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
The Sultan, who serves as Co-Chairman of Nigeria Inter-Religious Council and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, underscored the importance of dialogue in strengthening national unity.
According to him, platforms like NIREC remain vital for constructive engagement, noting that his consistent participation in its meetings over the past two decades reflects his commitment to interfaith harmony.
“We believe talking is better than fighting. Let us understand our differences rather than trying to erase them,” he said.
Addressing concerns about religious teachings, the Sultan warned against the growing influence of unqualified clerics, stressing that fluency in Arabic does not automatically translate into sound Islamic scholarship. He added that religious leaders must deepen their knowledge to properly guide followers and prevent the misuse of religion for personal or political gains.
On security, he condemned the tendency to link criminality with religion, insisting that bandits and terrorists should not be profiled along religious lines. He maintained that Islam does not condone violence against innocent people.
“Anyone who kills an innocent person in the name of religion is going to hell,” he stated, noting that many victims of terrorism in northern Nigeria are Muslims.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the Sultan urged religious leaders to build stronger trust with their followers, warning that meaningful national progress cannot be achieved without it.
He also commended NIREC’s collaboration with international partners, referencing recent interfaith engagements in London involving the Church of England and global Islamic scholars aimed at addressing Nigeria’s challenges.
While appreciating the Federal Government’s support, he reaffirmed NIREC’s commitment to promoting peace across the country, stressing that its activities would continue regardless of funding challenges.
The Sultan added that the visible cooperation between Christian and Muslim leaders serves as a powerful example of unity for communities nationwide.
