CITIZENS COMPASS— The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, has expressed optimism that despite the current challenges facing Nigeria, the nation will overcome and attain greatness once again.
This position was conveyed through his representative, Sarki Fulani of Lagos, HRH Alhaji Dr Mohammed Abubakar Bambado II. (Banbado), at the presentation and launch of the book “Gani Fawehinmi and the Nigerian Press”, authored by Basirat Fawehinmi-Biobaku, daughter of the late legal icon and pro-democracy advocate. The event was recently held in Lagos on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
A statement signed by Prince Bashir Adefaka on behalf of the Sultan’s Media Team said that the Sarki Fulani of Lagos, who delivered the Sultan’s message at the event, extended warm greetings on behalf of His Eminence and expressed his honour at representing him at the significant occasion.
He noted that the gathering served as a celebration of the life, legacy, and enduring contributions of the late Gani Fawehinmi, whose courage, strong convictions, and steadfast commitment to justice left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s democratic journey. He described Fawehinmi as a man who stood resolutely for truth, accountability, and the rule of law.
The Sultan further commended the author for producing a work that not only pays tribute to the late activist but also highlights the critical role of the Nigerian press in the pursuit of justice. He emphasized that a free, responsible, and vibrant press remains fundamental to the sustenance of democracy.
His Eminence called on leaders, citizens, and particularly the younger generation to draw inspiration from Fawehinmi’s legacy by speaking truth without fear, defending the oppressed, and upholding justice at all times.
He expressed hope that the publication would continue to educate, inspire, and reinforce a collective commitment to building a just and equitable society.
“Today, we gather to celebrate the life, legacy, and enduring impact of the late Gani Fawehinmi—a man whose courage, conviction, and unwavering commitment to justice shaped the conscience of our nation. Through his voice and actions, he stood firmly for truth, accountability, and the rule of law.
“This book, authored by Basirat Fawehinmi-Biobaku, is not just a tribute, but a powerful documentation of the vital relationship between the Nigerian press and the pursuit of justice. It reminds us that a free and responsible press remains a cornerstone of democracy.
“His Eminence encourages us all—leaders, citizens, and especially the younger generation—to draw inspiration from Chief Fawehinmi’s legacy: to speak truth without fear, to defend the oppressed, and to uphold justice at all times,” said the Sultan as represented by the Sarki Fulani of Lagos HRH Alhaji Mohammad Abubakar Banbado II.
The statement concluded with prayers for the peace, unity, and continued progress of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Other dignitaries present at the event, asides the Sarki Fulani of Lagos HRH Alhaji Mohammad Abubakar Banbado II, included the Governor of Kaduna State Senator Ubah Sani, human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), former Kaduna State Senator, Shehu Sani, Professor Pat Utomi, human rights activist Joe Okei-Odumakin, and many others.
