Sultan Demands Justice For Slain Igbo Muslim Colonel, Urges FG And Military To Act

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on the Federal Government and military authorities to launch a thorough investigation into the alleged killing of senior army officer, Colonel Abdur-Razaq AbdulKarim Ode.

The monarch urged security agencies to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible for the officer’s death, insisting that justice must be served without delay.

The appeal was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by Prince Bashir Adefaka on behalf of the Sultan’s Media Team.

The Sultan also condemned what he described as persistent hate speech and hostility directed at minority Igbo Muslims in the South-East, warning that such actions pose a threat to national unity and peaceful coexistence.

As President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), the Sultan said the circumstances surrounding the death of the senior military intelligence officer should be thoroughly investigated by both the Federal Government and the Armed Forces.

He urged Nigerians to continue promoting peace, tolerance and mutual respect, stressing that Islam encourages love, restraint and harmonious coexistence among people of different backgrounds.

Describing the late Colonel Ode as a dedicated military intelligence officer who earned the respect of both the Muslim community and traditional leaders in his area, the Sultan said his death should not be ignored or left unresolved.

He maintained that the killing of any Nigerian, particularly a senior military officer serving the country, must be treated with the seriousness it deserves, with those responsible brought to justice.

The monarch also expressed concern over reports that the attackers allegedly attempted to harm members of the deceased officer’s family during the incident, urging security agencies to investigate every aspect of the attack.

He further called for an end to hate speech, intimidation and violence against minority religious communities across the country, warning that attacks targeting people because of their faith undermine Nigeria’s unity and social harmony.

The Sultan concluded by praying for the repose of Colonel AbdulKarim Ode’s soul, asking Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus.