Just In: Sultan of Sokoto’s Power to Appoint District Village Head Removed

Sokoto State Governor Signs Controversial Laws, Limits Sultan’s Powers

Sokoto – Eaglessightnews reports that In a move that has sparked controversy, Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu has signed into law six new bills, including a contentious amendment to the Sokoto Local Government and Chieftaincy Law.

The amendment strips the Sultan of Sokoto of his powers to appoint district and village heads in the state.

Governor Addresses Tension

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Governor Aliyu acknowledged the tension generated by the proposed amendments, stating, “We note with concern the unnecessary tension created by our proposal to amend some of these laws.” He attributed the reactions to political motivations and ignorance, saying, “Some of the reactions were politically motivated, while others were done ignorantly without care to inquire from the right quarters on the details and intention of the amendment.”

Good Governance, Not Witch-Hunt

The governor reassured that the amendments aim to strengthen good governance in the state, emphasizing, “Let me make it clear that the just amended laws are not meant to witch-hunt any individual or group but rather to promote good governance and to remove the ambiguity and inconsistency with the nation’s constitution.”

Advice to Muslim Clerics

Governor Aliyu cautioned Muslim clerics against being exploited by politicians, urging them not to allow “lazy politicians” to use them for political gain.

Commitment to Citizens

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to listening to the yearnings and aspirations of its citizens, stating, “Whenever we come across any law that does not suit the interests of our people, we will not hesitate to replace it.”

Other Signed Laws

In addition to the Sokoto Local Government and Chieftaincy Law, the governor signed five other laws, including the Sokoto State Tenancy Law, Zakkat, and Waqf Law.

The development has sparked mixed reactions, with some hailing the move as a step towards good governance and others criticizing it as an attack on the Sultan’s authority.