- * Says Situation Now Worse Than The Civil War Era
By Ankeli Emmanuel (In Sokoto State)
Worried by the magnitude of the lingering insecurity that has enveloped nearly every part of Nigeria lately, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar 111, has observed that the challenge seems more serious than that the nation's civil war.
Sultan who is the President-General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), made the observation when the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya, paid him a courtesy visit in Sokoto state.
Sultan who is also a retired Army Officer pointed out that the insecurity challenge now is so complex because no one knew who his enemies are, unlike the civil war scenario.
The Sultan however observed that "the Nigeria Army do have such serious challenge during the Civil war like now. During the civil war, you know your enemies and who you are facing. But this present insecurity is different as you do not know who your enemies are".
Sultan, however in his consolation, said, he, like other Nigerians, has confidence in the Nigerian security forces. "These challenges are not insurmountable. We have confidence in Nigerian security. They will overcome. I know the capability of the Nigerian Army. They are highly professional. They are committed to a united and peaceful Nigeria".
To the Chief of Army Staff, Sultan said, "We believe in destiny that Allah put you there to do your best". He appealed to him therefore to ensure that the Nigeria Army remains loyal to the country, as there has to be a country first before any other thing.
"I always feel so happy receiving personnel of the military. I thank all of you for homecoming. In Sokoto, we don't discriminate, which was why we do not have non-indigenes but the resident community", Sultan reiterated.
Speaking earlier, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya, said he was in Sokoto his home state, and in the palace to pay homage and seek royal blessings
"I am here to pay respect and seek your royal blessings as a son of the soil. What I can continue to do is to appreciate the Sultan for everything. The Sultan has helped and assisted us with pieces of advice long ago, even while in active service.
"You have helped many. You have crossed bridges and mended fences across the federation. You have shown unimaginable commitment to the service of humanity" the Chief of Army Staff observed. NNL.
