Islamism Aimed At Good Governance In Nigeria, Not Seizing Power, Clarifies Sultan Of Sokoto

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has said that Islamism in Nigeria is not aimed at seizing political power but promoting good governance anchored on justice, accountability, and service to humanity.

Speaking during an interfaith dialogue in Sokoto, the Sultan explained that the essence of Islam is to encourage moral leadership and fairness, not domination or coercion.

He noted that many misconceptions about Islam stem from ignorance and misinterpretation of its principles.

“Islam is not about taking power or forcing anyone. It is about doing what is right, promoting justice, and serving the people sincerely,” the Sultan said.

“When we speak of Islamism, we are referring to a commitment to good governance, peace, and moral responsibility not political control.”

The revered monarch also clarified the meaning of jihad, saying it does not mean violence or war, but striving to be better individuals and working for the good of society. He emphasized that Islam teaches peace, tolerance, and respect for human life.

He urged political and religious leaders to uphold integrity and transparency in their conduct, stressing that the problem of Nigeria lies not in religion but in leadership failure.

“We cannot continue to blame religion for our failures in governance,” he said. “It is about leadership, not labels. A good leader, whether Muslim or Christian, will serve the people faithfully.”

The Sultan called for stronger collaboration between faith communities to strengthen unity, promote justice, and discourage the misuse of religion for political or divisive purposes.

The dialogue, attended by Islamic scholars, Christian clerics, and traditional rulers, focused on strengthening interreligious harmony and reaffirming the role of faith in promoting peace and good governance in Nigeria.