By Editor
The Sultan of Sokoto and leader of Nigeria’s Muslim community, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has voiced serious concern over the renewed bomb attacks in Borno State, asking whether the country is slipping back into a troubling period many believed had ended.
He made the remarks on Wednesday night at the Sultan’s Palace while addressing his media team shortly after confirming the sighting of the new moon that marks the end of Ramadan and declaring Friday, March 20, 2026, as Eid-el-Fitr.
Speaking as President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), the Sultan condemned the latest wave of violence and urged the military and security agencies to intensify their operations against terrorism and insurgency.
He stressed that the redeployment of military and security leaders should not be merely routine but should involve proactive strategies that target terrorists in their hideouts rather than waiting for attacks to occur before responding.
According to the Chairman of the National Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria (NTRCN), security forces must take the battle directly to terrorist strongholds to prevent further attacks and ensure lasting peace in the country.
The Sultan also reiterated that such acts of violence are completely contrary to the teachings of Islam and should never be associated with the religion. He called on the government to demonstrate firm political will in protecting citizens and eliminating criminal elements across all regions of the country.
He noted that although communities may not always know those responsible for the attacks, they remain committed to promoting peace, unity, and moral guidance, while the government must fulfill its responsibility of ensuring safety and security nationwide.
The Sultan concluded by offering condolences to the Government and people of Borno State, the Kanem-Borno Emirate, and families of those who lost their lives in the attacks.
He prayed for the victims and wished those injured a quick recovery.