I Have No Intention Of Dethroning Sultan, Sokoto Governor Dismisses “Rumour”

The Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu has dismissed rumour making the rounds that he is planning to dethrone the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.
According to the Governor, his relationship with the Sultan and the Sultanate Council has been very cordial.
A statement today, June 25, by Malam Abubakar Bawa, spokesman of the governor, quoted Governor Ahmed Aliyu as describing allegation on a plan by the state government to dethrone the Sultan as baseless and unfounded.
”It is an attempt by mischief makers and enemies of progress to fabricate false and unsubstantiated information, just to create an unfriendly atmosphere and fear in the minds of the law-abiding and peaceful citizens of the state.
”We assure MURIC that the present administration just like the previous administrations in the state, cherishes and respect the Sultanate Council long before MURIC was established.
”The Sultanate Council which has a long standing historical importance is so reverred to all the people of Sokoto State, therefore we still hold the institution in very high regards and esteem.”
The Governor emphasized that the relationship between his administration and the Sultanate Council, led by respected traditional ruler, Abubakar, has been very cordial.
He said that his administration always consulted with Sultan on issues affecting the state and his invaluable contributions and inputs are always respected and included in policy implementation.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu said that the sacking and transfer of some District Heads made recently by Sokoto state government was done due to some unbecoming behaviours of the affected traditional rulers.
The Governor asked Vice President Kashim Shettima, who had raised concern over the rumour of the dethronement, to disregard the false information.
”The Sultan enjoys all the powers he is entitled to; we never denied him any of his freedom or rights.
”We do not need to be told to guard, protect, and promote the Sultan, it is our sole responsibility.
”The government and People of Sokoto state cherish and adore the sultanate council and would do everything possible to protect the dignity of the revered institution.”
Source: partly NewsDiary online.