“Where, Who, How?” — Sultan of Sokoto Dismisses Genocide Allegations, Demands Proof from Accusers

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has publicly dismissed claims suggesting that genocide is taking place in Nigeria. He challenged both local and international groups spreading such narratives to present credible and verifiable evidence to support their allegations. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Speaking during the Northern Traditional Rulers Assembly Meeting (Kebbi 2025) in Birnin Kebbi, the Sultan stressed that no ethnic or religious group is being systematically targeted or exterminated in the country.

He stated firmly:

“There is no genocide in Nigeria. Nobody — whether Muslim, Christian, or of any ethnic group — is being killed without the knowledge of the traditional rulers in their communities. Such claims are false and dangerous.”

“No Proof of Genocide Against Any Group”

According to the Sultan, recent accusations of genocide — particularly those circulating online and in foreign media — are not backed by facts.

He clarified that while Nigeria faces insecurity and isolated incidents of violence, no evidence supports the claim of organized extermination of any group.

“If anyone, within or outside this country, has credible evidence of genocide, let them bring it forward,” the Sultan insisted. “We are ready to investigate any genuine case, but what we see are exaggerated reports that fuel division and hatred.”

His remarks appeared to respond to ongoing discussions on social media, where some users and organizations have accused certain groups of coordinated attacks against specific communities in northern Nigeria.

Warning Against Fake News and Social Media Propaganda

The Sultan of Sokoto also addressed the growing danger of misinformation spreading through social media platforms, describing it as a major threat to national peace and security.

“Most of what people read and share on social media is not true,” he warned. “Many people spread falsehoods without verification, and that is why confusion and mistrust are growing among citizens.”

He urged Nigerians to be cautious about what they consume online, emphasizing that digital misinformation often inflames existing tensions and undermines the efforts of traditional and community leaders who work to maintain peace.

Call for Social Media Regulation

To curb the impact of fake news, the Sultan called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to adopt stronger measures to regulate the use of social media.

He noted that while freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it should not be abused to spread lies, hatred, or division.

“The government must not fold its arms while fake news tears the nation apart. Regulation does not mean censorship — it means accountability,” he said.

He added that unverified claims of genocide or ethnic cleansing can escalate conflict, incite retaliation, and damage Nigeria’s global reputation if left unchecked.

Promoting Unity Through Traditional Leadership

Beyond addressing the genocide allegations, the Sultan used the occasion to highlight the vital role of traditional rulers in fostering peace, cooperation, and understanding across communities.

He explained that the Northern Traditional Rulers Assembly serves as a platform to develop strategic solutions to insecurity and intercommunal conflicts, especially in northern states battling insurgency and banditry.

“Our role as traditional rulers is to ensure that peace returns to every community,” he said. “We must continue to collaborate with government agencies, the military, and civil society to address insecurity and promote national unity.”

The Sultan commended Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, for hosting the meeting, and expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, for participating despite his demanding schedule.

A Call for National Reflection and Prayer

In his closing remarks, Sultan Abubakar urged Nigerians of all backgrounds to focus on building bridges of trust rather than amplifying divisions.

He called on citizens to pray for the country’s leaders and remain committed to fostering peace, stability, and development.

“Let us not allow propaganda to destroy the unity that binds us as a people. Nigeria belongs to all of us — Christians, Muslims, northerners, southerners alike,” he said.

The Sultan’s strong stance has been widely praised by traditional leaders and citizens who believe his message offers a balanced perspective amid growing tensions fueled by disinformation.