The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’adu Abubakar III, has dismissed claims that Muslims are plotting to eliminate Christians in Nigeria, describing such allegations as dangerous narratives capable of deepening division and mistrust in the country.
The monarch made the remarks on Wednesday during the first triannual meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, where religious and political leaders gathered to deliberate on insecurity, peace, and national unity.
Key Highlights
•Sultan of Sokoto rejects claims of Islamising Nigeria agenda
•Monarch says Muslims are not plotting against Christians
•Calls for unity and dialogue between religious groups
•Warns against linking terrorism and banditry to religion
•Religious leaders discuss insecurity and national cohesion at NIREC meeting
According to Muhammadu Sa’adu Abubakar III, Nigeria’s security challenges should not be viewed through a religious lens, insisting that criminal elements do not represent Islam or Christianity.
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“Muslims are not planning to eliminate Christians in Nigeria. Such a thing is impossible,” the Sultan stated, while cautioning Nigerians against spreading narratives capable of fueling suspicion, hatred, and division.
The traditional ruler also condemned the practice of attaching religious identities to violent crimes such as terrorism, banditry, and killings, stressing that perpetrators should simply be identified as criminals.
He warned that some individuals exploit religion to justify criminal acts, even though such actions contradict the core teachings of faith.
The meeting was attended by prominent religious and government officials, including leaders of Christian and Muslim organisations, who discussed the need for greater cooperation in addressing insecurity and promoting peaceful coexistence.
The Sultan further stressed the importance of continuous dialogue between Christians and Muslims, noting that mutual understanding remains essential for preserving national unity and stability.
He also condemned suicide bombings and attacks carried out in the name of religion, warning that those responsible would ultimately face divine judgment for taking innocent lives.
The remarks come amid ongoing national conversations surrounding insecurity, religious tolerance, and efforts to strengthen interfaith harmony in Nigeria.
