Sultan of Sokoto calls for regulation of Social media

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called for stricter regulation of social media in Nigeria, citing its growing misuse and potential threat to national peace and unity

Speaking through the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, at the Northern Ulamah Summit on insecurity and socioeconomic challenges in Kaduna, the Sultan expressed concern over how social media is being abused, even by scholars.

He warned that unregulated online activity undermines mutual respect and can fuel division.

“Anyone can wake up, pick up their phone, and insult anyone—whether a respected individual, a leader, your neighbour, or even a family member. There are no laws, no consequences, and no one to challenge this behaviour,” the Sultan said. He added that other countries regulate social media, ensuring that posts causing unrest can be traced and punished, and stressed that Nigeria should adopt similar measures.

The summit, organized by the Congregation of Northern Ulamas, brought together top Islamic clerics, political leaders, and stakeholders from northern Nigeria to discuss insecurity, religious harmony, and the role of scholars in national development.

Dr. Bashir Aliyu Umar, President of the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, emphasized unity and responsible communication. “We must rise above our differences. The Qur’an and Sunnah guide us to work together for peace, justice, and good relationships,” he said. He also warned about the dangers of misinformation online, urging Nigerians to use social media responsibly to help address the root causes of insecurity.

Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi highlighted the need for constructive online engagement, cautioning against defamation while opposing total censorship. “Existing laws against false accusations and defamation should evolve to match the speed and reach of social media,” he said.

Other respected clerics present included Sheikh Ibrahim Khalid, Sheikh Abubakar Jahid, Sheikh Abdullahi Bala Lau, Sheikh Kabiru Gombe, Sheikh Khalid Aliyu (JNI), Dr. Bashir Dahiru Bauchi, Malam Nafiu Baba Ahmed, and Sheikh Maihula.

Former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, urged northern communities to take responsibility for security challenges, noting that many perpetrators of violence come from within.

Representing the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Alhassan Ado-Doguwa pledged legislative support for implementing the summit’s recommendations, while Senator Kawu Samaila of Kano addressed international claims of religious persecution in Nigeria, calling them false and emphasizing peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians.

Senators and clerics alike stressed caution in public statements, urging verification of information before making comments about political leaders, underscoring the summit’s focus on unity, peace, and responsible engagement both offline and online.

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