Islamic leaders will push for relief from hardship – Sultan

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, announced on Sunday that Islamic leaders will reach out to political authorities to advocate for measures aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by Nigerians.

Speaking during the grand finale of the centenary celebration for the Az-Zumratul Adabiyyatul Kamaliyyah School of Arabic and Islamic Studies in Ilorin, Kwara State, the Sultan asserted that religious leaders are attuned to the challenges confronting citizens and will consistently urge those in power to enhance living conditions.

“As leaders of Islam, we are always aware of the issues being raised in public discourse. We will do our utmost to ensure that political leaders understand their responsibilities toward the common man,” he said.

His comments come amid rising concerns regarding the increasing cost of living, particularly in relation to food prices, transport fares, and fuel costs.

Earlier, on October 8, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, headed by the Sultan, called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to lower food and transportation expenses. The council issued a communiqué following its General Assembly in Abuja, urging the government to implement measures that would relieve the financial burden on ordinary Nigerians.

In response to the financial challenges, the Federal Government announced the introduction of measures intended to mitigate the impact of surging fuel prices on households and businesses, all without reinstating the petrol subsidy that was removed in 2023.

Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele revealed a 30-day petrol price relief initiative at NNPC Retail stations, emphasizing that the temporary discount would be financed through the margins of NNPC Retail rather than public funds.

During the anniversary celebration, the Sultan expressed optimism about Nigeria’s ability to overcome its current challenges. He stated, “We know the problems in this country, and we understand that every problem has a solution.”

He called on Nigerians to engage in prayers for divine intervention and to support President Bola Tinubu, state governors, local government chairmen, and other political leaders in their efforts to improve the lives of citizens.

Read Full Article