The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, has called for divine intervention to bring about the repentance of individuals responsible for violence and insecurity in the country.

The monarch made the appeal on Saturday while receiving the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at his palace in Sokoto, stressing the need for continuous prayers for peace, national stability and a change of heart among those perpetrating acts of violence.

He said leaders must continue to seek God’s intervention, expressing hope that those involved in criminal activities would embrace genuine repentance and become responsible members of society.

The Sultan also commended the First Lady for the humanitarian interventions being carried out through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), describing the programme as one that has positively impacted the lives of many Nigerians.

In her remarks, Mrs Tinubu thanked the Sultan for his consistent support and guidance to the administration of President Bola Tinubu, noting that he has continued to provide valuable counsel since the government came into office.

She also recalled the longstanding relationship between their families, explaining that her visit was primarily to express appreciation for the monarch’s encouragement and support.

Earlier, Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu praised the First Lady for the visit and lauded the Renewed Hope Initiative, saying its programmes have improved the welfare of women, children, young people and families across the country.

The visit concluded with the Sultan inviting Islamic scholars to offer prayers for Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu, the First Lady, the Sokoto State Government and continued peace and progress in the state and the nation.