According to the report from the Vanguard, Recent reports of perceived moves by the Sokoto State government to depose the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, have caused significant concern among the Muslim community and the nation at large.
In response to these reports, Professor Ishaq Akintola, Executive Director of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), highlighted the gravity of the situation. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the Sultan’s position and suggested a solution to prevent future political interference.
He said, "We have suggested that the first holder of the office under an independent Supreme Council should come from Sokoto, Muslims of Sokoto will know that this is not a rebellion against the good people of Sokoto. Let the first holder come from Sokoto."
Akintola underscored the wealth of talent within Sokoto, stating, "We have many talented and highly incredible scholars from Sokoto." He noted the difference in tenure between the Sultan and other traditional rulers compared to the proposed position, saying, "The Sultan has no tenure, and no Emir, Oba, or Obi has a tenure, but the position of the President-General of the Supreme Council is going to be democratic."
He assured that MURIC would support this suggestion if accepted, explaining, "We are going to follow through if that suggestion is accepted. Of course, it depends on how the Supreme Council and other Muslim leaders view it. I am just a small errand boy without influence in the Supreme Council. If they accept the suggestion, which is tailored towards free, fair treatment for all, equality, and good relationships among all, it is fine."
Akintola proposed a rotational tenure system for the President-General of the Supreme Council, stating, "Our position again is that there should be a tenure of maybe five or six years each. After five years, the President-General goes, and another comes. The one from Sokoto who will be the first suggested by us may spend six years and go. Then somebody who is elected again from the South-West will take it up and become the President-General. He spends six years and leaves."
He continued, "Another one from Kano will take it on. It will become rotational. Spend your term and go away. No governor will be able to influence the President-General. We will not be under any government influence. The Supreme Council will then be vocal. It will be able to speak freely and promote the interests of Nigerian Muslims."
This approach aims to ensure the independence and integrity of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, protecting it from political influences and enabling it to better serve the Muslim community across Nigeria.