Sokoto state government refutes Vice President Shettima's claims about plans to depose the Sultan, urging fact-checking before public statements. They deny any threats to the Sultan's position, reaffirming their commitment to protecting the sultanate's dignity and rights. The incident highlights federal-state tensions and misinformation risks.
The Sokoto state government has issued a strong response to Vice President Kashim Shettima's recent comments regarding the Sultan of Sokoto. The controversy stems from Shettima's public warning at the Northwest Security summit in Katsina about alleged plans to depose Sultan Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar.
In a statement by Governor Ahmed Aliyu's spokesman, Abubakar Bawa, the state government urged Shettima to verify facts before commenting on sensitive national matters. The administration expressed disappointment that the Vice President did not consult with Governor Aliyu before making public statements.
The government firmly denied any attempts or intentions to remove the Sultan from his position. They emphasized their commitment to protecting the dignity and rights of the sultanate council, describing it as a cherished and revered institution in Sokoto.
Bawa's statement highlighted the government's expectation that an elder statesman like Shettima should have a comprehensive understanding of issues before addressing them publicly. They suggested that the Vice President may have been misled by unverified social media claims and "mischief makers."
The Sokoto government reassured the public that the Sultan enjoys all his entitled powers and freedoms, with no threats or restrictions imposed. They reiterated their dedication to guarding, protecting, and promoting the Sultan's position as part of their core responsibilities.
