Sultan of Sokoto Urges Military to Take War to Terrorists After Maiduguri Bombings
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar, has issued a strong appeal to the Nigerian military to adopt a more proactive and aggressive approach in combating terrorism, following devastating twin bomb attacks in Maiduguri, Borno State. The spiritual leader made this urgent call on Wednesday while officially declaring Friday as Eid-el-Fitr, marking the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan.
Deadly Attacks Prompt Urgent Security Review
The Sultan's appeal comes in direct response to the horrific bombings that occurred on Monday in Maiduguri, which resulted in the tragic deaths of 23 individuals and left more than 100 others with severe injuries. The coordinated explosions targeted multiple locations including a bustling local market, the entrance gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the strategic Post Office flyover in the Borno State capital. These attacks have reignited concerns about security vulnerabilities in the region.
Proactive Military Strategy Demanded
In his condemnation of the violence, Sultan Abubakar emphasized that security forces must shift from a reactive posture to actively taking the fight directly to terrorist enclaves and hideouts. He stressed that waiting for terrorists to strike before responding is insufficient for ensuring national safety. "Take the war to the terrorists where they are. Do not wait for them to strike before defending or finding remedies. This you must do so that, as a nation of great people, we can have peace in our country," the Sultan declared forcefully.
Rejection of Violence in Islam
The Sultan described the bombings as fundamentally un-Islamic, clarifying that such brutal acts of violence should never be associated with the true teachings of Islam. He underscored that Islam promotes peace and harmony, and these attacks contradict its core principles.
Call for Government Action and National Unity
Beyond military strategy, the Sultan called on the Nigerian government to demonstrate unwavering political will in protecting all citizens across the country, irrespective of religious or ethnic backgrounds. "The government should summon the political willpower required to provide effective security and safety for all people, to stamp out these criminal elements across the country," he asserted.
He further appealed to all Nigerians to actively promote peace, unity, and coexistence, noting that sustainable national development is entirely dependent on a safe and harmonious society. The Sultan's statements highlight the critical intersection of security, governance, and social cohesion in addressing the ongoing threat of terrorism in Nigeria.
