The Sultan of Sokoto has reiterated his conviction in the application of dialogue as the only way to curb insurgency in Nigeria.
Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar the 3rd, while speaking at an iftar dinner organised for journalists in his palace said dialogue is the key to resolving the Boko-Haram issue.
The Sultan said he is ready to represent the federal government in the negotiations, if appointed.
The sultan stated, "We are ready to go anywhere to talk to anybody as long as there is a formula of what to be done. We don't have any legal authority to call for dialogue with any insurgent, the federal government must make the move.
"I have said it so many times that no amount of force can defeat insurgents. Dialogue is the best option but we must negotiate on the platform of strength so that there will be peace. You must be stronger than the person you are negotiating with and when the insurgent knows you are stronger, he will listen and agree to your terms and there will be peace.”
Citing examples from around the world, he said "I have seen what happened during my stay in Pakistan for three years. I have seen what happened in Iraq and Afghanistan. Even the United States of America is talking with the Taliban and Al-Qaeda. Even Pakistan after fighting Taliban for several years is following the path of dialogue. Why can't we negotiate with Boko Haram and now release some prisoners for the Chibok girls?"
Sultan Abubakar also noted that no price is too much to pay, to restore peace.