Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has signed into law a controversial bill that removes the Sultan’s authority to appoint district and village heads in the state. The amended Sokoto Local Government and Chieftaincy Law is one of six new laws enacted to strengthen good governance in the state.
Governor Aliyu addressed the controversy surrounding the law, stating that it was not intended to target any individual or group but rather to promote good governance and align with the nation’s constitution. He urged Muslim clerics not to be exploited by “lazy politicians” and assured citizens that his administration would continue to listen to their concerns and amend laws that do not serve their interests.
The signed laws also include the Sokoto State Tenancy Law, Zakkat and Waqf Law, and others. This development may potentially reshape the balance of power in Sokoto State’s governance structure.