Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III

By Mohammed Aminu

Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts at tackling the security challenges bedevilling the country.

He also called on Muslims to live in harmony with their neighbours and pray fervently for peace to reign in the country.

The monarch made the plea Friday, in a message to the Muslim Ummah to commemorate the Eid-el- Kabir festival in his palace in Sokoto.

He maintained that government must do more to protect the lives and properties of the citizens.

The Sultan, who was away in Saudi Arabia for Hajj but spoke through, Alhaji Rilwanu Bello, stressed the need for Nigerians to support the efforts of the federal and state governments towards tackling the security problems in the country.

According to him, the issue of security is a collective responsibility that should not be left in the hands of security operatives alone.

"Security is not the sole responsibility of government and security agents alone. So, Nigerians should give support to government in order to tackle security problems bedevilling us,” he said.

He expressed happiness that the issue of the deported female pilgrims was resolved amicably, adding that they are now in Saudi Arabia performing their Hajj rites.

The Sultan urged farmers in the North to engage actively in dry season farming to ensure the availability of food all year round.

He stressed the need for farmers to pay Zakat and shun middle men to ensure price reduction of food items in the market.

He therefore, charged Muslims to re-dedicate themselves to worship of Allah and pray for peace and prosperity of the nation.

The monarch commended the state government for its efforts towards the provision of roads, education and massive construction of primary health centres as well as the provision of N6, 500 monthly allowance to physically challenged persons in the state.