By Ankeli Emmanuel (Correspondent, Sokoto)
Former governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, has appealed to all Nigerians to be united to enable us to defend our peace. Idris who noted that only peace and truthfulness on the part of all of us can guarantee development added that, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar 111, and indeed, the people of Sokoto are a perfect example of accommodating spirit that should be emulated by all.
Speaking in his residence after being coronated a day earlier as the Jekadan Sokoto in a very colorful event held at the Sultan Palace, the former Kogi governor assured that the honor and traditional title was not only in recognition of his little contribution to humanity but an act that will spur him to impact more positively on humanity.
While describing Sultan as a real Scion of his fire fathers, the former Kogi governor, Ibrahim Idris promised to continue to see Sokoto as his home like always. This even as he called on all Nigerians to leave in peace with people anywhere they find themselves. Said Ibrahim Idris, " I promise to take full responsibility of my new title as an Ambassador of the caliphate by striving hard for the development of humanity and this country at large. " Sokoto people are very hospitable, accommodating, friendly and straight-minded with honesty in dealing with people. This they have once again demonstrated by honoring me, a Kogi-born citizen who came here to do business so times ago but today a happy titleholder in the Seat of the Caliphate".
Discerning what the title meant to him, the former governor said, we must be honest to one another in whatever we are doing or anywhere we find ourselves, as according to him, it pays to be honest in dealing with people. "Let's strive at all times to be honest so that we can be trusted irrespective of our religion, political affiliation, tribe, or ethnic background. Nigeria can move forward when we make honestly part of watchwords". Recalling his days back then in Sokoto with nostalgia, the former governor said " my relationship with Sokoto began with my early days as a furniture factory owner. Happily, I secured my first loan of £4,500 pounds in Sokoto. "I was the only one supplying furniture to schools and institutions in the old Sokoto state, comprising Kebbi, Zamfara, and even Niger State. In fact, they have shown me, love. I have nothing to say about the love and support because I see them as part of me. "I am impressed by what I have become today. It takes honesty, straightforwardness, and trust to make an impact in life. I can't quantify my bond with the people of Sokoto State just like every other Nigerians". NNL.