Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has described the late 18th Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Ibrahim Dasuki, as a pioneer reformist, who deployed his wide knowledge of Islam and vast experience as a technocrat, to make profound impact on his family, community and the nation at large.
In a message of condolence issued on Tuesday by his spokesman, Malam Imam Imam, the Sokoto governor said at every stage of his life Sultan Dasuki gave everything to ensure communal harmony and educational development of the citizenry.
Governor Tambuwal said, “The history of local government reform in Nigeria will not be complete without the mention of the important role Sultan Dasuki and his colleagues played in giving the country the present structure we are enjoying at the third tier of government.
“For the eight years Dasuki spent on the throne as Sultan of Sokoto, he gave priority attention to the educational development of our people by promoting adult and women literacy in all parts of Sokoto. He equally paid attention to the revitalization of religious education, especially among Imams of various mosques in the Caliphate.
“He dedicated time, energy and resources in promoting religious harmony, especially between Muslims in the North and the South West of the country. So also is his efforts at promoting peaceful coexistence between and among various religious groups within the country and beyond.
“In addition, he will be remembered for formulating workable framework for the prevention and management of inter-communal clashes in Nigeria. His untiring efforts in ending the Tiv, Jukun and Fulani skirmish in Taraba State, particularly stands out.
“As a person who rose to the pinnacle of civil service and retired as a Federal Permanent Secretary, Sultan Dasuki dedicated his later years to mentoring young Nigerians on aspect of leadership, public administration and community service. He became a repository of knowledge and was always willing to share his experience with whoever sought it. He will be greatly missed.”
While praying to Almighty Allah to grant Sultan Dasuki jannatul-firdaus, the governor said the people and government of Sokoto would continue to cherish the deceased’s contributions to the development of the Caliphate and the state at large.
Governor Tambuwal equally commiserated with Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar and late Sultan Dasuki’s family over the painful loss.
