Sultan of Sokoto Advocates Regulation of Social Media
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged the Nigerian government to regulate social media, warning that its unchecked use threatens the nation’s peace, unity, and mutual respect.
Speaking through the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, at the Northern Ulamah Summit on Insecurity and Socioeconomic Challenges organized by the Congregation of Northern Ulamas in Kaduna, the Sultan expressed concern over the growing misuse of social media, including by some religious scholars.
He commended Islamic scholars for convening to address issues affecting the Muslim Ummah and national stability but lamented the rise of online disrespect and division fueled by unregulated platforms.
“Today, anyone can wake up, pick up a phone, and insult respected individuals, leaders, or even family members without consequence,” he said. “In other countries, social media is regulated. When someone posts content that incites division or unrest, they are traced and held accountable. That is how it should be in our country.”
Dr. Bashir Aliyu Umar, President of the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, also warned that misinformation spread through social media was ‘fueling conflict and distrust, urging citizens to use digital platforms responsibly to help both government and communities address insecurity more effectively.’
Prominent cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi echoed similar concerns, stressing the importance of responsible engagement online. “Part of the problem is social media, where you find many clashes. But one should not exceed boundaries by accusing or defaming others,” he said.
Gumi, however, cautioned against total censorship, calling instead for better enforcement of existing laws. “There are already laws against defamation and false accusations. What we want is for these laws to evolve to match the speed and universality of social media,” he added.
Also speaking, Senator Kawu Samaila of Kano dismissed international claims of religious persecution in Nigeria, stating that “even Christian lawmakers in the Senate have dismissed those allegations, affirming that Muslims and Christians live peacefully in this country.”
He further advised Islamic clerics to verify information before making public statements about political leaders to avoid fueling unnecessary tensions.
