The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged politicians and public office holders to refrain from sponsoring pilgrims to Mecca and Jerusalem using stolen public funds. He made this statement on Wednesday in Abuja at the opening ceremony of a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, NIREC. The Sultan emphasized that using corrupt funds for religious activities cannot be justified, regardless of their spiritual purpose.
Abubakar stressed that God cannot accept deeds done with corrupt money, saying, “You cannot steal money and send people to Jerusalem or Mecca with corrupt funds and think God will accept your deeds.” He further emphasized that God is not corrupt, and therefore, corrupt money should not be used for Hajj or any other purpose. This statement was made in the presence of various stakeholders, including religious leaders and anti-corruption agencies.
The Sultan also called on religious leaders to collaborate with anti-corruption agencies in tackling corruption and promoting accountability. He specifically urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to carry out its duties without political interference. Abubakar’s statement comes as a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
In addition to his comments on corruption, Abubakar emphasized the importance of promoting mutual understanding between Christians and Muslims. He stated that stronger interfaith relations are necessary for peaceful coexistence in Nigeria. The Sultan’s remarks highlight the need for religious leaders to foster a culture of tolerance and understanding.
Abubakar also cautioned clerics against making inflammatory statements, particularly during election periods. He urged them to pray for national leaders rather than using religious platforms to cause division. The Sultan’s advice is seen as a call to action for religious leaders to promote unity and stability in the country.
The stakeholders’ meeting organised by NIREC had the theme “Shared Sacred Flourishing in Nigeria.” The event brought together various stakeholders, including religious leaders, politicians, and anti-corruption agencies, to discuss issues related to interfaith relations and corruption. The Sultan’s statement has sparked a renewed call for accountability and transparency in the use of public funds.
The Sultan’s warning to politicians and public office holders comes at a time when there are concerns about the use of public funds for private purposes. His statement has been seen as a call to action for leaders to prioritize accountability and transparency in their dealings.
Key points
- Sultan Abubakar warns against funding pilgrimages with stolen public funds
- The Sultan calls for collaboration between religious leaders and anti-corruption agencies
- Abubakar emphasizes the importance of promoting mutual understanding between Christians and Muslims
