By Chesa Chesa
The family of the late Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Maccido, has called on Nigerian leaders to prioritise dialogue, accountability and peaceful coexistence in tackling insecurity, religious intolerance and communal tensions across the country.
The appeal formed part of the family’s message to mark 20 years since Maccido died in the ADC Airlines Flight 053 crash in Abuja on October 29, 2006, alongside 95 other passengers and crew. Contemporary reports put the death toll at 96.
In a statement on Sunday signed by Bello Maccido, the family said late Sultan’s approach to leadership remained relevant to Nigeria’s present challenges, particularly his emphasis on consultation, national unity, religious tolerance and service to humanity.
“At a time when our nation faces serious security and social challenges, the ideals our father stood for remain as relevant as ever,” the family said.
Maccido became the 19th Sultan of Sokoto in April 1996 and served as President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs. He was regarded as a prominent voice for moderation and calm in Nigeria.
Born in 1926 in Dange, Sokoto, Maccido was a son of Sultan Abubakar III and a descendant of Sheikh Usman dan Fodio. Before becoming Sultan, he served in public administration, including as Presidential Liaison Officer in Sokoto State.
During his reign, the family said he supported interfaith engagement, education, public health and initiatives against polio and HIV/AIDS, reflecting his belief that traditional institutions should contribute to national development.
The October 2006 crash claimed Maccido, his son, Senator Badamasi Maccido, and his grandson among 96 fatalities after the ADC Boeing 737 crashed shortly after take-off from Abuja. The Sultan had travelled to the capital for a Presidential Forum on Education.
The family also recalled former President Shehu Shagari’s description of Maccido as a patient and consultative leader. Shagari was quoted as saying, “He does not rush or dictate things,” highlighting the late Sultan’s preference for consultation over forceful leadership.
The family urged Nigerians to preserve Maccido’s values while remembering all victims of the aviation disaster, calling for stronger aviation safety and regulatory accountability.
“Let this twentieth remembrance be more than an occasion for mourning,” it said, urging citizens to build the peaceful, just and united society Maccido championed.
