- Sultan urged the Federal Government to investigate the killing of Colonel AbdulRazaq AbdulKarim Ode
- He called for those responsible to be identified and prosecuted without delay
- The monarch also condemned hate speech and attacks against minority religious groups
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged the Federal Government and military authorities to carry out a thorough investigation into the alleged killing of senior military officer, Colonel Abdur-Razaq AbdulKarim Ode, at his residence in Abuja.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the monarch called for the immediate identification and prosecution of those responsible for the incident, insisting that justice must be served without delay.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by Prince Bashir Adefaka on behalf of the Sultan’s Media Team, the Sultan also expressed concern over what he described as persistent hate speech and discrimination against minority Igbo Muslims in the South-East, warning that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s unity.
As President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), the Sultan said the circumstances surrounding the death of the military intelligence officer deserved a comprehensive investigation by the appropriate authorities.
He stressed that Islam promotes peace, tolerance and harmonious coexistence, urging Nigerians to continue embracing these values despite growing tensions.
Describing the late Colonel Ode as a respected intelligence officer who enjoyed the admiration of both Muslim leaders and traditional rulers in his community, the Sultan said the killing of any Nigerian, particularly a senior military officer, should never go unresolved.
He also expressed concern over reports that members of the officer’s family were allegedly targeted during the attack, calling on security agencies to ensure those responsible are apprehended.
The Sultan further appealed for an end to hate speech, intimidation and attacks against minority religious communities across the country, regardless of whether they are Muslims or Christians.
He warned that acts of intolerance against minority groups threaten peaceful coexistence and national unity.
The monarch concluded by praying for the late Colonel AbdulKarim Ode, asking Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest in Al-Jannatul Firdaus
