The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has admonished religious leaders to prioritise justice and compassion in addressing the country’s numerous challenges. The religious leader spoke on Wednesday at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, during the launch of the NASFAT History Book to mark the organisation’s 30th anniversary.
He said, “Whatever problems you are having, whatever cries you are hearing, don’t flog them with the koboko. Instead, touch them with soft hands and say, ‘Look, things will be okay.’”
According to him, justice is the foundation that upholds the fabric of any society, adding that “As Sheikh Abdulrauf said, a nation can endure with disbelievers of God, but it cannot endure with injustice,” urging both leaders and citizens to uphold truth. At the same time, he called on public office holders to account to God for all their actions.
The cleric lamented the poor quality of education for Nigerian youths, although he encouraged citizens to keep praying for their leaders instead of cursing them.
“If you pray for your leader and he does good things, you enjoy. If you pander to his whims and he does bad things, you will suffer. So, pray for them to do right, to be just, and to have good health and direction,” he added.
While acknowledging that “times are tough,” the Sultan expressed optimism that Nigeria would emerge victorious from its current challenges. “When times are tough, tough people overcome such times. I believe Almighty Allah will bring ease to all of us in this great country. Let’s go back to Him and Him alone.”
Earlier, NASFAT President Alhaji Ayodeji Abdulrauf praised the Sultan and Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for gracing the occasion. He described the newly launched book as a “living testimony” to the vision, sacrifice, and resilience of NASFAT’s founders since its formation on March 5, 1995.
“It is a written reflection of our journey from humble prayer meetings in Lagos to a global faith-based organisation with over 360 locations worldwide. NASFAT has promoted social welfare, education, healthcare, and moral values, impacting lives across continents,” Abdulrauf concluded.