Stop insulting one another – Sultan to Christians, Muslims

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar, has urged Christians and Muslims in Nigeria to cease insulting each other, emphasizing that mutual respect is essential for peaceful coexistence. Speaking in Abuja during an event on Tuesday, the Sultan stated that both Christians and Muslims must acknowledge their responsibility to refrain from insulting one another.

He cautioned against fostering a sense of religious superiority, asserting that neither Christians nor Muslims should perceive themselves as superior to the other. "We are not here to say we are better than anybody," he reiterated, emphasizing that God determines superiority and that He knows best.

The Sultan's remarks followed a statement from Islamic cleric Yahaya Jingir, who had previously suggested that Christians would view themselves as superior to Muslims if not for the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket. While the Sultan did not directly address Jingir, he reiterated that no religious group should consider themselves superior to another.

He also called for Nigerians to rediscover the practice of caring for their neighbors, irrespective of their religious or ethnic backgrounds. "Allah created your neighbour for you," he reminded, clarifying that each individual should know their duty towards their neighborhood.

Additionally, the Sultan criticized the proliferation of false and disparaging statements on social media, warning that those who intentionally fabricate stories about public officials would face divine judgment. He urged Nigerians to prioritize national unity over any divisive agenda. Drawing from the legacy of late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, who had protected over 200 Christians inside his mosque during a crisis in Plateau State, the Sultan highlighted Abdullahi's example of humanity. He urged Nigerians to carry forward Abdullahi's spirit of compassion in their interactions.