The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on religious leaders across Nigeria to take a stronger stand against corruption and support the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in tackling financial crimes.
The Sultan made the call on Wednesday during the 2026 Second Council Meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), held under the theme, “Shared Sacred Flourishing in Nigeria.”
He warned that proceeds obtained through corruption cannot become acceptable simply because they are later used for religious activities or charitable purposes.
According to the Sultan, individuals who steal public or private funds should not attempt to legitimise the money by sponsoring people to undertake religious pilgrimages to Mecca or Jerusalem.
He stressed that religious leaders have a responsibility to condemn corrupt practices and promote accountability within their communities.
The Sultan said corruption was contrary to religious teachings and maintained that stolen funds could not be transformed into legitimate or spiritually acceptable resources through acts of worship.
He also urged religious leaders to cooperate with EFCC Chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede, in the prosecution of people accused of financial crimes.
The monarch emphasised that the law should apply equally to everyone, regardless of religious position, family ties, political connections or social status.
He specifically warned against attempts to shield pastors, imams or other religious figures from investigation and prosecution because of their positions.
The Sultan said religious leaders, relatives and friends of suspects should allow anyone accused of wrongdoing to face due process rather than seek preferential treatment.
He further called on the EFCC to remain focused on its statutory responsibilities and investigate suspects based on the law, irrespective of their religious or political affiliations.
The Sultan also cautioned the anti-graft agency against allowing political considerations to interfere with the fight against corruption.
His comments came as members of NIREC and EFCC leadership considered ways religious institutions could contribute to promoting ethical conduct, accountability and the fight against corruption in Nigeria.
The Sultan’s intervention places particular emphasis on the responsibility of faith leaders to discourage the misuse of illicit wealth for religious purposes and to support lawful efforts to combat financial crimes.
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