Mass Resignation Rocks Sokoto As 19 Traditional Rulers Resign

Nineteen traditional rulers, including district and ward heads from Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, have resigned their titles and declared their allegiance to Senator Ibrahim Lamido.

The unprecedented mass resignation, detailed in an official statement last Tuesday, includes leaders from pivotal regions such as Sabon Birnin Gabas, Tsilba, and Sabon Garin Danbaki.

This wave of resignations follows the earlier departure of Alhaji Abdullahi Muhammad Bawa, the District Head of Sabon Birni, who stepped down on October 16, 2024.

In his resignation letter, Bawa cited October 16 as his effective date of resignation, signalling a growing shift in local political dynamics.

These resignations come amidst escalating political tensions within the region as traditional leaders increasingly align themselves with emerging political forces.

The ward heads of prominent areas like Magajin Dawakin, Dan Faru, and Zumbuli are among those who have vacated their positions to support Senator Lamido’s political endeavours.

The letter, which he personally signed, reads in part: “I was appointed district head of Sabon Birni on July 15, 2014, and I resigned my position to join the political wagon of Senator Ibrahim Lamido.”

Alhaji Lauwali Shuaibu, the ward head of Taka-Tsaba, one of the affected traditional rulers, told journalists in Sokoto, “We have tendered our resignation letters but nobody invited us to hear our grievances.

He said their decision was prompted by Senator Lamido’s commitment towards improving their well-being, noting that “the man is always coming to our rescue whenever bandits attacked our people.

“Our support will encourage Sen. Lamido to continue with the good work he has been doing for our people.”

Also commenting, another traditional ruler who resigned his position, Alhaji Jamilu Gwanda Gobir, the Ubandoman Sarkin Gobir, late Isa Muhammad Bawa, said their decision was aimed at salvaging Gobir district.

He said, “About 10 traditional rulers joined me in resigning their positions. I served the district as Ubandoma for nine years. Our positions are now vacant.”

The former Ubandoma assured that the traditional rulers that resigned have vowed to support only politicians who are committed to the wellbeing of their constituents.