The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called for tighter regulation of social media in Nigeria, expressing concern over its misuse and potential threat to national peace and cohesion.
Speaking through the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, at the Northern Ulamah Summit on insecurity and socioeconomic challenges in Kaduna, the Sultan warned that social media abuse, even by scholars, undermines respect and unity.
“Anyone can wake up, pick up their phone, and insult anyone—be it a respected person, a leader, a neighbour, or even a family member. There are no laws, no consequences, and no accountability,” he said. He noted that in other countries, social media is regulated so that posts causing unrest can be traced and punished, urging Nigeria to adopt a similar approach.
The summit, organized by the Congregation of Northern Ulamas, brought together Islamic clerics, political leaders, and stakeholders from across northern Nigeria to address 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 cautioned against misinformation on social media, stressing that irresponsible posts can fuel division and conflict.
Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi called for constructive online engagement, warning against defamation while opposing total censorship. “Existing laws against false accusations and defamation should be updated to match the speed and reach of social media,” he said.
Other notable 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 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 to implement the summit’s resolutions. Senator Kawu Samaila of Kano addressed international claims of religious persecution in Nigeria, calling them false and highlighting peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians.
The summit concluded with calls for verified, responsible communication by scholars and the public, emphasizing the importance of unity, peace, and accountability in both online and offline spaces.