Sultan's Media Office Denies Endorsing Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election Bid, Reaffirms Political Neutrality
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
By Basil Zimiro
The media office of the Sultan of Sokoto has dismissed reports alleging that the revered traditional ruler endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for re-election in 2027, describing such claims as false and misleading.
In a statement issued to clarify the matter, the Sultan’s media team said narratives suggesting that His Eminence had publicly aligned himself with President Tinubu’s political ambition do not reflect his position or the values of the Sultanate.
According to the statement, the Sultan has consistently maintained a non-partisan stance throughout his years of national service and has never used his office to promote the political interests of any individual or political party.
The media office stressed that the Sultan's interventions on national issues have always been guided by the principles of justice, fairness, peace, and the collective interest of Nigerians, rather than partisan considerations.
It explained that any publication, commentary, or social media content portraying the Sultan as endorsing a presidential candidate should be treated with caution, insisting that such reports misrepresent his longstanding commitment to neutrality.
The clarification comes amid increasing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, with various public figures, traditional institutions, and religious leaders increasingly becoming subjects of political speculation and misinformation.
The media team reiterated that the Sultan remains a father to all Nigerians irrespective of ethnicity, religion, region, or political affiliation. It added that his primary responsibility is to encourage peaceful coexistence, national dialogue, and unity at a time when the country requires greater social cohesion.
According to the statement, the Sultan will continue to use his moral authority to advocate for peace, mutual respect, and understanding among Nigerians without identifying with partisan political interests.
The office further noted that preserving the neutrality of the traditional institution is essential to maintaining public confidence in its role as a bridge between diverse communities and as a respected voice for national reconciliation.
The Sultan of Sokoto is widely regarded as one of Nigeria's most influential traditional and religious leaders. As the spiritual leader of Nigerian Muslims and Chairman of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), he regularly speaks on issues affecting national security, religious harmony, governance, education, and social development.
Over the years, the Sultan has consistently called on political leaders to prioritize good governance, accountability, and the welfare of citizens while urging Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence regardless of political differences.
His public interventions have often focused on promoting dialogue during periods of national tension, earning him recognition as a respected statesman beyond religious and regional boundaries.
The latest clarification by his media office is seen as an effort to preserve the non-partisan character of the Sultanate and prevent the institution from being drawn into the country's evolving political contest ahead of the 2027 elections.
The media office maintained that the Sultan's commitment to national unity remains unwavering and urged Nigerians to disregard reports suggesting that he has endorsed any political candidate or party.
