Sokoto Gov Shuns Outcry, Signs Law Limiting Sultan’s Power
Despite public outcry and reservation, Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has assented to the Sokoto Local Government and Chieftaincy Law stripping the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa`ad Abubakar, of the power to appoint district and village heads in the State.
Amid the controversy generated across the country with many opposing the new law, Governor Aliyu said the amendments were meant to address ambiguities and inconsistencies with the nation’s Constitution.
The Governor, who spoke on Thursday after signing six Executive Bills recently passed by the state House of Assembly, said the amended laws were not intended to target any individual or group, but rather to promote good governance across the State.
According to him; “It is well-known that in every society, laws are enacted and amended to suit the needs of the time and the interests of the governed, in line with current circumstances.
“In Nigeria, we have witnessed a series of constitutional amendments to give the country laws that ensure peace, tranquility, and socio-political development.”
The Governor further explained that Sokoto, like other states, has amended various laws under previous administrations aimed at fostering peace and development within their respective domains.
While expressing concern over the tension created by the proposed amendments, Governor Aliyu said; “Some reactions were politically motivated, while others were made ignorantly without proper inquiry into the details and intentions of the amendments.
“I appreciate our Ulama for their concern, but remind them that they represent Allah’s Messenger. They should not allow lazy politicians to use them for political gains”.
He said signing the amended laws demonstrates his administration’s respect for the rule of law, assuring the citizens that government would always listen to their aspirations and ensure that any laws made or amended align with the nation’s constitution.
For him; “Whenever we encounter any law that does not serve the interests of our people, we will replace it with one that protects their interests”.
Governor Aliyu, who commended the State House of Assembly members for their “maturity and patriotism” in handling the amendments, said his administration would effectively collaborate with traditional rulers and the Sultanate Council for the overall good of the state and the nation.
Also, he appreciated the people of Sokoto State for their unwavering support and pleaded for greater grassroot backing to achieve the administration’s development goals.
In his remarks earlier, Deputy Speaker of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, Alhaji Kabiru Ibrahim (APC-Kware), said the passage of these Bills demonstrates the government’s commitment to enhancing citizens’ welfare and well-being.
Ibrahim said the Assembly made the legislative process more inclusive and participatory by inviting relevant stakeholders to discuss the Bills.
The amended bills are those on the Arabic and Islamic Board; Zakkat and Endowment Agency; Prohibition of Discrimination against Persons with Disability; the Local Government Consolidated Law 2009; and Rural Roads and Land Tenancy
