Sokoto clears late Sultan Dasuki of wrongdoing, renames varsity, hospital after Shagari, Sultan Abubakar

Reprieve has come the way of the late Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki, who was deposed in controversial circumstances by the late Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha, in 1996 over alleged wrongdoing.

Dasuki, who served as the 18th Sultan of Sokoto, passed away in November 2016, at the age of 92.

The Sokoto State government, yesterday, issued a white paper officially exonerating the late Sultan of breaching the law.
The decision, based on investigation and findings by a committee, marks a turning point in the case that has overshadowed the late Sultan’s legacy for nearly three decades.

The committee, led by a former Secretary to the Military Government and Head of Service, the late Muhammadu Jega, conducted a study into circumstances surrounding government’s action against the late Sultan.

Its findings concluded there was no evidence to support any incriminating acts that should justify his deposition. It also highlighted denial of the Sultan’s right to defend himself, as required by laws of the land.

Announcing the decision on behalf of the state government, Commissioner for Information, Akibu Dalhatu, and the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Suleiman Usman, said:

“The white paper adopted the recommendation of the committee, which said the late Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki should be officially exonerated and cleared of any wrongdoing and paid all entitlements for the years he served as Sultan of Sokoto, in accordance with laws pertaining to such entitlements.”

Approval of the white paper by Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, during a sitting of the State Executive Council on May 25, 2023, demonstrated empathy and recognition for the late Sultan.

People of the state, who have closely followed the development, received the announcement with relief and satisfaction, even as Dasuki’s supporters, who maintained his innocence, noted that their faith in his character and integrity has been justified.

Meanwhile, the government renamed the state’s University of Education after former President Shehu Usman Shagari, in recognition of his contribution to growth of the state.Tambuwal, who gave the approval, also renamed a newly constructed teaching hospital after Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.

The decision, according to Dalhatu “was inspired by the administration’s profound reverence for the memories and accomplishments of Sokoto State’s esteemed heroes.”

The commissioner said the State Executive Council approved the decision at one of its sessions.

“The state government firmly believes these personalities merit utmost respect and perpetual remembrance for their contributions to various aspects of humanity,” he said.

The public institutions renamed include: Sokoto State University (renamed Sheikh Abdullahi Fodio University); College of Education (renamed Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki College of Education); College of Agriculture and Animal Sciences (renamed Shehu Malami College of Agriculture and Animal Sciences); College of Nursing Sciences (renamed Balaraba Buda College of Nursing Sciences); College of Midwifery (renamed Aisha Ahmad Gandi College of Midwifery); College of Legal and Islamic Studies (renamed Haliru Binji College of Legal and Islamic Studies).

According to Dalhatu, “this decision is a collective determination to preserve the heritage of the state and inspire future generations to emulate accomplished figures who have left an indelible mark on society.”

He added: “The meticulous process of renaming was conducted with utmost thoughtfulness and discernment. Through extensive consultations with eminent historians, esteemed community leaders, and representatives from various sectors, the government ensured that the chosen names epitomised the cherished values and ideals that Sokoto State holds dear.”

Tambuwal said the government was convinced that renaming the institutions serves as a profound expression of gratitude for selfless sacrifices made by the heroes in pursuit of the advancement and prosperity of Sokoto State.