Asadu Seeks Stronger Ties Between Northern And Southern Traditional Rulers

The Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Samuel Asadu, has emphasized the need for sustained collaboration between traditional rulers from Northern and Southern Nigeria to foster national unity, religious tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.

He made this call following his recent visit to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’adu Abubakar III, where he discussed strengthening ties between Enugu and Sokoto States.

Speaking with journalists in his office, Igwe Asadu, who is also the traditional ruler of Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient Kingdom in Nsukka Local Government Area, highlighted the significance of engaging with the Sultan, whom he described as the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria.

According to him, the visit was an opportunity to exchange ideas, draw inspiration from the Sokoto Caliphate, and enhance cultural understanding between both regions.

He was accompanied by other prominent monarchs from the South-East, who share an unwavering commitment to a united Nigeria.

The visit also provided Igwe Asadu an opportunity to meet with Igbo leaders residing in Sokoto, where he preached peace and harmony.

From Left: Sultan of Sokoto Caliphate, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, presents gift to Chairman of Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, Igwe Sir Samuel lkechukwu Asadu, during his delegation’s national peace and unity visit to Sokoto on Friday February 21, 2025.

Sultan of Sokoto Caliphate,His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, Middle, receives members of Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers les by their Chairman, Igwe Samuel lkechukwu Asadu, Second Left, during the South East monarchs national peace and unity visit to Sokoto on Friday February 21, 2025.

He explained that reaching out to other ethnic nationalities, including the Ooni of Ife and the Etsu Nupe, is part of a broader initiative to strengthen inter-ethnic relations.

He further stressed the importance of traditional rulers learning from one another to improve governance within their domains, bridge ethnic divides, and promote social cohesion.

While appreciating Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for facilitating the visit, Igwe Asadu revealed that he shared the governor’s developmental strides with his host, including the construction of smart schools, hospitals, roads, and agricultural programs.

He noted that leaders in Sokoto were particularly interested in Enugu’s smart school initiative and expressed hopes that such engagements would encourage investment and business collaborations between both regions to boost Enugu’s economy. The visit also aimed at ensuring a harmonious relationship between Sokoto indigenes living in Enugu and vice versa.

Since assuming office as Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council in 2024, Igwe Asadu has been instrumental in promoting peace, cultural exchange, and economic growth in Enugu.

Within two years, he has strengthened the traditional institution, championed grassroots development, and facilitated strategic alliances across Nigeria. His efforts continue to position Enugu as a model of unity and progress, with traditional rulers playing an active role in fostering national cohesion.