Sultan of Sokoto: Islam Does Not Seek Political Power, Rejects Extremism

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, has emphasized that Islam is not aimed at seizing political power in Nigeria and strongly rejects extremism.

Abubakar made the remarks on Thursday in Abuja during the public presentation of Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum, a book authored by former Chief of Defence Staff, Lucky Irabor.

The religious leader recalled being accused of opposing the re-election of former President Muhammadu Buhari following a lecture he delivered in 2019 on Islam and good governance.

“In September 2019, I spoke on Islam and good governance. President Buhari was preparing for his second term. The next day, newspapers reported that my lecture was aimed at opposing his re-election,” he said.

Abubakar, who is also chairman of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, stressed that Islam provides a clear moral code for adherents and that extremism has no place in the religion.

He clarified the misconception surrounding Jihad, explaining that it does not involve violence against non-Muslims but is about striving for excellence in life.

“Jihad means to strive — to be the best in whatever you do. A good Muslim strives to be virtuous; a Christian strives to be good in his faith; a farmer or an engineer strives to excel in their work,” he said.

He added that guidance comes from the Holy Quran, the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (SA), and the consensus of Islamic scholars. “Anyone who acts outside these principles does not represent Islam. Extremism has no place in our faith,” he noted.

The Sultan called for unity among Nigerians, urging all citizens to work together to strengthen the country, irrespective of their backgrounds.

He also commended Irabor for his service to the nation and for documenting his experiences in the fight against insecurity.