The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on Nigeria’s military to adopt a more aggressive and proactive approach in combating terrorism following the recent deadly bombings in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Speaking on Wednesday while declaring Friday as Eid-el-Fitr to mark the end of Ramadan, the Sultan urged security forces to take the battle directly to insurgents rather than waiting for attacks to occur.
His remarks come in the wake of Monday’s coordinated bomb explosions in Maiduguri, which claimed 23 lives and left more than 100 people injured. The attacks were reported at a local market, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital gate, and the Post Office flyover in the state capital.
Condemning the violence, Abubakar described the bombings as both tragic and contrary to Islamic teachings, stressing that such acts should not be linked to the religion.
“Take the war to the terrorists where they are. Don’t wait for them to strike before defending or finding remedies,” he said, emphasizing the need for decisive action to restore peace across the country.
The Sultan also urged the Federal Government to demonstrate stronger political will in tackling insecurity, calling for comprehensive measures to protect all citizens regardless of their background.
“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 added.
He further appealed to Nigerians to uphold peace, unity, and mutual coexistence, noting that national development is only possible in a secure and stable environment.
