Sultan Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar has charged newly turbaned traditional title holders in the Sokoto Sultanate to uphold honesty, accountability and selfless service in the discharge of their responsibilities.
The Sultan, who is also the President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), gave the charge during a turbaning ceremony held at his palace in Sokoto on Saturday, where 15 individuals were conferred with various traditional titles.
Addressing the title holders, the monarch stressed the importance of speaking the truth at all times, even when it involves correcting leaders.
“Keep on telling us the truth all the time. Whenever we go astray, bring us back on track; it is part of your responsibility,” he said.
He noted that leadership requires accountability and openness, assuring the title holders that leaders should be willing to explain their actions when necessary.
“If you insist and we don’t retreat on whatever mission, we will tell our reason for not retreating,” the Sultan added.
The revered traditional ruler reminded the appointees that the titles bestowed on them were a call to service rather than privilege, describing them as his ambassadors whose foremost responsibility is the welfare of the people.
Among those turbaned were Umaru S. Abubakar III as Sarkin Arewan Sokoto, Haliru S. Abubakar III as Janjunan Sokoto, Ya’u Aliyu as Dikkon Sokoto, Aliyu Suleiman as Bunun Sokoto, and Mu’azu Bello Maiwurno as Wakilin Ayukkan Daular Usmaniyyah.
Others included Ahmad Rufa’i Na Dange as Sarkin Tsabta, Abdullahi Dan Azumi as Barayan Sarkin Musulmi, Bello Ibrahim Gusau as Sarkin Malammai, Abbas Abba Aminu as Sarkin Shariffai, Almustafa Mazuga as Mazugan Sarkin Musulmi, Ubangari as Zagin Sarkin Musulmi, Nura Umar as Dangaladiman Zagin Sarkin Musulmi, Kabiru Maibulo as Sarkin Tamburra, Usman Abdullahi Mustafa as Muhtasibin Sokoto, and Shehu Zubairu Tela as Danmalikin Sokoto.
The ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including the representative of the Governor of and Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, , as well as representatives of the Emirs of and , senior councillors of the Sultanate Council, kingmakers and other prominent guests.
The event formed part of the Sultanate’s efforts to strengthen traditional institutions and promote responsible leadership within the community.
