The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has dismissed reports claiming he endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election in the 2027 presidential election, describing the reports as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Prince Bashir Adefaka, the Sultan clarified that he has no preferred candidate for the 2027 presidential race and remains committed to his role as a father to all Nigerians, irrespective of political affiliation.
The statement was in response to reports circulating on social media alleging that the revered traditional ruler had called on Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s second-term bid.
According to the statement, such a position would be inconsistent with the Sultan’s longstanding non-partisan role.
“The attention of the Media Team of the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, has been drawn to a report circulating on some social media platforms, creating the impression that the Sultan has called on Nigerians to support the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
“Our simple response to the report is that it is not possible for the Sultan, as the father of all, to make such a statement, either publicly or in any other forum,” the statement said.
The Sultan further described the reports as malicious and an attempt to drag him into partisan politics for selfish interests.
He reiterated that his palace remains open to all Nigerians, regardless of their political beliefs, stressing that he will continue to relate with political leaders and citizens without bias or discrimination.
“The Sultan’s doors cannot be shut against anyone who comes to him, regardless of political affiliation or persuasion. His Eminence has consistently demonstrated that he is the father of all and will continue to relate with all Nigerians without discrimination,” the statement added.
The clarification comes amid increasing political activities and speculation ahead of the 2027 general elections, with prominent national figures continuing to emphasise the need for neutrality in matters of partisan politics.
