By Rosemary Ameh, Sokoto
The Sokoto Sultanate Council has dismissed as misleading a viral video circulating on social media purportedly showing a recent protest at the palace of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, over the current economic hardship in the country.
In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Council, Aminu Haliru Gidadawa, the body gave its own side to the event, saying the footage being circulated was an old video recorded in 2024 during the nationwide demonstrations over rising cost of food items.
The Council said the video was being deliberately shared out of context at this time to create what it described as a false impression that fresh protests were taking place at the palace.
According to the statement, the Sultan has consistently expressed concern over the hardship facing Nigerians and continued to advocate measures aimed at improving the welfare of the people.
“The Sultan does not participate in partisan politics and has always maintained a consistent position on issues affecting the public,” the statement noted.
The Council further reassured residents that there was no unrest at the palace, stressing that the atmosphere in and around the palace remained peaceful.
“There are no protests, disturbances or security concerns at the palace or its environs,” the statement added.
The Council urged members of the public to verify information before sharing on social media, warning that the circulation of outdated content as current events could mislead the public and detract attention from ongoing efforts to address food security and economic challenges in the country.
*PHOTO CAPTION: Sultan Abubakar.
