Sultan urges Obi, Kwankwaso to shun divisive politics

T****he Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged politicians to conduct their political activities peacefully and avoid divisive rhetoric capable of creating hatred and tension in society.

The Sultan gave the advice on Monday when he received the presidential candidate of the New Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, his running mate, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, and the party’s Sokoto State governorship candidate, Dr Shamsu Haido, at his palace in Sokoto.

He called on politicians and their supporters to respect one another, uphold the unity of the country and avoid abusive language, insults and other actions that could trigger violence.

The Sultan said while politicians had the right to present their policies and seek the support of the electorate, they must do so with respect for the law and those with different political views.

He stressed that politics should not be used as a tool for dividing the people or creating hostility, adding that the interests of Nigeria and the peace of the country should take precedence over political differences.

According to him, political positions are temporary, while peace and unity remain essential to the development of society.

The monarch also urged political leaders, particularly those seeking public office, to lead by example and ensure that their campaigns did not become a source of conflict or division.

In his remarks, Obi thanked the Sultan for receiving the delegation and listening to them.

Obi urged Nigerians to use the 2027 general elections to vote for NDC candidates at all levels, saying it is a collective responsibility to address the country’s recurring challenges.

He said the party is committed to providing what he described as a “politics of care and service to Nigerians.”

The former Anambra governor also expressed concerns over the economic situation of Nigerians, promising to deploy the country’s resources to improve security, education and other sectors of the economy.

“Education is our number one priority after unity and security,” Obi said.

He also promised to connect all state capitals with railway lines to facilitate economic activities and boost development.

The visit was part of the delegation’s political engagements and consultations with traditional and comm.