Worried by the magnitude of the lingering insecurity that has enveloped nearly every part of the country lately, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar 111, has observed that the challenge seems more serious that the nation’s civil war.
The Sultan, who is also the President General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), stated this on Monday when the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya, paid him a courtesy visit in Sokoto.
The revered royal father, who is also a retired Army General, stated that the insecurity challenge is now so complex because you do not know who your enemies are unlike the civil war scenario.
The Sultan said, “The soldiers do not 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”.
The royal father,however, stated that he, like other Nigerians, have confidence in the Nigerian security forces.
“These challenges are not insurmountable. We have confidence in the Nigerian security. They will overcome.
“I know the capabilty of the Nigerian Army. The soldiers are highly professional. They are committed to a united and peaceful Nigeria”.
To the COAS, the Sultan said, “We believe in destiny that Allah put you there to do your best”.
Appealing therefore to the Nigerian Army to be loyal to the country, the Sultan said that there have to be a country first before any other thing.
He said, “I always feel so happy receiving personnel of the military. I thank all of you for home coming. In Sokoto, we dont discriminate which was why we do not have non-indegenes but resident community”.
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
The COAS said, “I am here to pay respect and seek royal blessings as a son of the soil. What I can continue to do is to appreciate the Sultan for everything. The Sultan have helped and assisted us with pieces of advice long ago even while in active service.
“You have helped many. You have crossed bridges and mend fences across the federation. You have shown unimaginable commitment to the service of humanity”.
