The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has called for an immediate investigation into the killing of a Nigerian Army officer, Colonel Abdussalam Ude, describing the incident as a serious threat to national unity and justice.
In a statement issued by his Media Team, the Sultan urged the Federal Government and the Armed Forces of Nigeria to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
He stressed that the killing of any Nigerian, particularly a serving military officer, should never go unresolved, warning that failure to investigate such incidents undermines public confidence and the nation’s commitment to justice.
The Sultan also condemned what he described as persistent discrimination and hostility against minority Igbo Muslims in the South-East, calling for greater religious tolerance and protection of the rights of all Nigerians, regardless of their faith or ethnicity.
According to him, the reported assassination of Colonel Ude, said to be one of the most senior Igbo Muslim officers in the Nigerian Army, demands a transparent investigation to establish the facts surrounding the incident.
He further urged security agencies to uncover the motive behind the killing and ensure that all those involved are prosecuted, noting that protecting the lives of citizens remains a fundamental responsibility of government.
The Sultan reiterated the need for peaceful coexistence, religious harmony and equal treatment of all Nigerians as essential ingredients for national unity and sustainable development.
