The Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on governors across the 19 Northern states to take public criticism seriously, warning that dismissing citizens’ concerns could worsen the region’s escalating challenges.

Speaking on Monday at a joint meeting of the Northern Governors’ Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers Council in Kaduna, the Sultan noted that many citizens feel abandoned by their leaders once elections are over. He stressed that listening to constructive criticism is essential for effective governance, especially in a region grappling with insecurity, severe poverty, and economic strain.

“I always feel bad when I hear that the governor doesn’t want to do anything or the president doesn’t want to do anything,” he said. “No governor, no president will ask for people’s votes and then, once in office, turn his back on the people.”

He urged governors not to view critics as adversaries but as valuable sources of feedback that can guide meaningful reform.
“Listen to critics, listen to criticisms, listen to critiques, and make amendments whenever these arise,” the Sultan advised.

While expressing confidence in the governors’ intentions and acknowledging their demanding schedules, Sultan Abubakar reaffirmed the unwavering support of traditional rulers across the North.
“We are 100% with you in this drive to make the North a better place. You have our confidence; you have our trust. You can reach out to us any time of the day,” he said.

He also called for stronger collaboration between political leaders and traditional institutions, suggesting more frequent, structured meetings across geopolitical zones to improve coordination on regional issues.

Reiterating the commitment of traditional rulers to peace and stability, the Sultan concluded: “Whatever it takes to bring peace and stability to the North and the country, we will do it. We have nowhere else to go—this is our home.”