The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called for the regulation of social media in Nigeria, citing its increasing misuse and the dangers it poses to national peace, unity, and mutual respect.
Speaking through the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, at the Northern Ulamah Summit on Insecurity and Socioeconomic Challenges organized by the Congregation of Northern Ulamas in Kaduna, the Sultan expressed concern over how social media has become a tool for insult and misinformation, even among some religious scholars.
“Anyone can wake up, pick up their phone, and insult anyone — a leader, neighbour, or even family member — without consequence. There are no laws or accountability. In other countries, social media is regulated. If someone incites division or unrest, they are traced and punished. This is how it should be here too,” he said.
The Sultan, however, commended the gathering of Islamic scholars for their efforts in addressing pressing issues facing the Muslim Ummah and the nation, urging them to promote responsible use of digital platforms.
The summit brought together leading Islamic clerics, political figures, and stakeholders from across Northern Nigeria to discuss insecurity, strengthen religious harmony, and enhance the role of scholars in national development.
Dr. Bashir Aliyu Umar, President of the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, explained that the meeting aimed to foster unity and generate practical solutions to the region’s challenges.
“We must rise above our divisions. The Qur’an and Sunnah guide us to work together for peace, justice, and strong relationships,” he said, warning that misinformation on social media fuels conflict and misunderstanding.
Dr. Umar also urged Nigerians to use social media responsibly, noting that constructive engagement could help the government and communities better tackle the root causes of insecurity.
Prominent scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for dialogue and ethical communication online.
“Social media contributes to many clashes today. However, people should not cross limits by making baseless accusations or defamatory comments,” Gumi stated.
While cautioning against total censorship, Gumi called for stronger enforcement of existing laws on defamation and false information.
“The laws already exist — they just need to evolve to keep pace with the speed and global reach of social media,” he added.
Other distinguished clerics at the summit 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 greater responsibility for tackling insecurity instead of blaming the government, noting that many of the perpetrators are from within.
Representing the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Alhassan Ado-Doguwa pledged that the National Assembly would support the implementation of the summit’s resolutions to advance peace and governance.
Senator Kawu Samaila of Kano also addressed recent international claims of religious persecution in Nigeria, dismissing them as unfounded.
“Claims of genocide against Christians are false. Even Christian lawmakers in the Senate have refuted such allegations, confirming that Muslims and Christians coexist peacefully in this country,” he said.
He further urged Islamic scholars to exercise restraint in their sermons, ensuring they verify information before making public comments about political leaders.
