The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, monday said politicians should not see traditional leaders as competitors or enemies but as partners in progress working to move the society forward.
He also admonished the new Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi II, to be fair and just and should lead his subjects on the path of God.
The monarch made the remarks monday when Sanusi paid him a homage in his palace in Sokoto.
He asserted that traditional leaders were not competing with politicians but will support whoever occupies the position of leadership at a particular time.
“Politicians should listen to us. As Muslim leaders, we support whoever occupies a position whether that of the president, governor or minister. So, there is need for synergy in order to move the country forward.
“We are partners in progress not competitors and we will not relent in giving the necessary advice to politicians because that is what is expected of us,” the monarch said.
The monarch stated that traditional leaders would not relent in their efforts to continue to advise political leaders on the best way to meet the yearnings and aspirations of the people.
He reminded the Emir of Kano of the need to be fair to all, stressing that in leadership, there should not be preference for any individual.
The Sultan emphasised that leadership was a sacred responsibility, hence the need for Sanusi to do his best to assist his subjects, as there was no better time they need his assistance than now.
He stated that God gives power to whoever He wishes and takes it away whenever He deems fit and as such there was the need for Sanusi to lead his subjects on the path of God.
“Your ambition to be an Emir has been fulfilled, what is now left is for you to provide the required leadership. You should remember that it is God that destined you to become an Emir and nobody else and as such should lead your subjects on the path of God.
“Whoever depends on God will not fear anything. We believe God will empower you with wisdom in the exercise of your mandate provided you follow his path,” the Sultan advised.
The Sultan to this end, welcomed the Emir of Kano into the Northern Council of Traditional Rulers and the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and expressed optimism that he would bring his wealth of experience to assist the organisations.
The monarch also reiterated his commitment to join hands with the new emir for the promotion of Islam in the country.
He therefore, congratulated Sanusi on his ascendance of the throne of his forefathers and prayed God to guide him in steering the affairs of his subjects.
Earlier, Sanusi told the Sultan that his coming to Sokoto, was to pay homage in line with the traditions dating from the era of Emir Suleiman.
According to him, his visit to the palace symbolised the respect and loyalty to the Sultan and prayed that God will continue to guide him to lead the Muslim ummah.
He condoled Muslims over the death of Alhaji Ado Bayero and prayed God to grant his soul eternal rest.
