The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III has called for religious and ethnic tolerance in Northern Nigeria.
This is as he noted that the people of many different races, tribes and religions, who are knit together by common history, common interests and common ideals are still recognized in the northern region.
The monarch made this claim at the closing ceremony of the national Qur’anic Recitation competition in Gusau, Zamfara State.
In his words, “On occasions like this, I always remind people about our firmly rooted policy on religious tolerance.
“Families of all creeds and colours can rely on these assurances. We have no intention of favouring one religion at the expense of another. Subject to the overriding need to preserve law and order.
“It is our determination that everyone should have absolute liberty to practise his beliefs.
“It is also befitting on this momentous day, on behalf of my ministers and myself, to send a special word of gratitude to all Christian missions.
“Let me conclude this with a personal message. I extend my greetings to all our people who are Christians on this great feast day.
“We should forget our differences in our religion and come together for a common brotherhood before God, by dedicating ourselves afresh to the great tasks which lie before us.
“Leaders who truly believe in nation building, not looters who come to power to be served & be worshipped”
