Earlier this week, a false report claiming the death of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, surfaced on social media, creating a wave of concern and tension across Nigeria. The rumor, which was quickly debunked by the Sultanate Council, has prompted calls from both the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) and the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) for a thorough investigation into the origin of the misinformation.
The Sultanate Council released a swift statement dismissing the rumor, clarifying that the Sultan was not only alive but actively participating in the Northern Governors Forum’s meeting with traditional rulers in Kaduna. Alhaji Kamaldeen Akintunde, former president of the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations (NACOMYO), confirmed that he had recently spoken with the Sultan, further proving the baselessness of the report.
MURIC, led by Professor Ishaq Akintola, condemned the spread of such a damaging rumor, describing it as sadistic, diabolical, and malicious. Akintola highlighted the gravity of the situation, explaining that the Sultan holds not only a highly respected position as the leader of the Sokoto Caliphate but also serves as President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA). Given his influence, any unfounded news about his well being has a far-reaching impact on Nigeria's Muslim community.
We strongly condemn this development. It is reckless, thoughtless, and absolutely irresponsible, Akintola stated. MURIC is now urging the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, to lead an investigation into the origins of the rumor and ensure that those responsible face legal consequences. Akintola believes this is essential to maintain law, order, and public confidence in Nigeria's cyber security.
MPAC joined MURIC in its call for accountability. In a statement by its Executive Chairman, Malam Disu Kamor, MPAC urged law enforcement to identify the perpetrators behind the false claims and prosecute them to prevent similar incidents in the future. Kamor emphasized the importance of verifying news sources, especially regarding highly regarded figures like the Sultan. The Sultan’s leadership and contributions to promoting peace, unity, and Islamic values in Nigeria are invaluable, Kamor said, adding that such false reports only serve to distract and mislead.
The Sultanate Council, represented by Dr. Muhammadu Jabbi Kilgori, Senior Counsellor and Sarkin Kilgori, also addressed the public, urging them to disregard the malicious rumors. The Sultan, Kilgori reassured, is in good health, actively fulfilling his duties and promoting peace and religious tolerance throughout the nation.
Alhaji Kamaldeen Akintunde of the Ogun State Muslim Council (OMC) also condemned the rumor, describing it as a malicious plot aimed at destabilizing Islamic leadership in Nigeria. Upon noticing the report on social media, Akintunde quickly contacted the Sultan, who calmly confirmed he was in a meeting in Kaduna, dismissing any cause for concern.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibilities of social media users and the need to verify information before sharing. The spread of false news, particularly regarding influential leaders, can have widespread repercussions, generating unnecessary fear and mistrust within communities. MURIC, MPAC, and other concerned groups continue to advocate for a society where truth and respect prevail in all communications.
As the investigation into the rumor’s origin unfolds, both MURIC and MPAC remain committed to supporting law enforcement efforts to protect the public from similar incidents and safeguard the integrity of respected figures like the Sultan.