Dokubo-Asari visits Sultan of Sokoto, invites him to December 19 coronation

Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, the Amanyanabo of the Source, Elem-Kalabari, in Rivers State, has visited the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar III, at his palace.

During the visit, Dokubo-Asari presented the Sultan with a Leadership Award. According to his media office, the award recognises the Sultan's work for peace, unity and responsible traditional leadership.

He was accompanied by Alabo Prince Tonye Princewill, the Polo'Dabo of Da Ogo and Paramount Head of the Da Ogo Group of Houses, along with other dignitaries, palace aides and advisers.

The visit also served as a formal invitation. Dokubo-Asari asked the Sultan to attend his Se Diye, or coronation, as Da Amakiri Tubo, scheduled for December 19, 2026.

Why it matters

The meeting brought together two traditional institutions from opposite ends of Nigeria: a Rivers State chieftaincy stool and the Sokoto Sultanate, one of the country's most prominent Muslim authorities.

Dokubo-Asari's office said the engagement showed brotherhood and mutual respect between traditional institutions. It said such relationships help promote peace, unity and responsible leadership across the country.

In a statement, his media office said true leadership goes beyond titles and palaces. "When traditional institutions come together in an atmosphere of peace and mutual understanding, the message resonates far beyond the walls of the palace," the statement said.

The Sultan thanked his guest for the visit, the award and the invitation. He expressed goodwill towards the ceremony and said he intends to attend, God willing, according to the statements.

Both sides described the meeting as a step towards building bridges across cultural and geographical lines.

What happens next

Preparations continue for the December 19 coronation, which organisers expect to draw royalty, dignitaries, friends and well-wishers.