The Kalabari traditional ruler’s visit to Sokoto highlights calls for stronger North–South relationships, peaceful political engagement and improved border security before Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
By Wapcodehub9ja LIVE News Desk
Traditional ruler Asari Dokubo and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, have highlighted the importance of stronger relationships between northern and southern Nigeria as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
The discussions took place during a royal visit by Dokubo, the Amanyanabo of Elem Kalabari in Rivers State, to the Sultan at his palace in Sokoto on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.
The visit provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships between traditional institutions in the South-South and North-West regions and reaffirm the importance of national unity, peaceful coexistence and cooperation.
Asari Emphasises National Unity
Dokubo expressed appreciation for the reception he received from the Sultan, describing him as an approachable and humble leader who treated people equally.
He said the relationship between them could help strengthen existing bonds between their communities and contribute to Nigeria’s collective welfare.
Dokubo stressed that Nigeria remained one country and that maintaining unity was important for the benefit of its citizens.
His remarks placed traditional institutions at the centre of efforts to build understanding across regional boundaries, particularly at a time when political activity is increasing ahead of the next general elections.
Traditional rulers often serve as important community figures, with opportunities to encourage dialogue, promote cultural understanding and support peaceful relationships among people from different backgrounds.
Sultan Calls for Peaceful Elections
The Sultan welcomed Dokubo’s visit and expressed confidence that engagements of this nature could strengthen longstanding relationships between communities in different parts of Nigeria.
With the 2027 elections approaching, he emphasised the importance of mutual understanding and peaceful conduct among political actors.
He observed that challenges exist in every society, stressing that the ability to address them constructively is what matters.
The Sultan’s remarks underscored the need for political stakeholders to manage disagreements peacefully and avoid actions that could undermine stability during the electoral period.
Border Security Also Raises Concern
Beyond national unity and political cooperation, the Sultan drew attention to security challenges associated with Nigeria’s porous borders.
He called for improved surveillance equipment to strengthen border monitoring and help curb smuggling and other cross-border crimes.
The concern highlights another dimension of the country’s security challenges: the need for effective monitoring of border areas alongside cooperation among communities, traditional institutions and relevant authorities.
Strengthening border surveillance remains an important consideration in efforts to address illegal cross-border activities and improve public safety.
Traditional Institutions and the 2027 Elections
The meeting between Dokubo and the Sultan reflects the continuing role of traditional institutions in encouraging dialogue and maintaining relationships across Nigeria’s diverse regions.
As preparations for the 2027 general elections continue, calls for unity, peaceful political engagement and improved security are likely to remain important subjects in national discussions.
However, the visit and the statements attributed to the two traditional leaders should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party or candidate. The reported focus was on regional relationships, national unity, peaceful elections and security concerns.
The broader challenge for Nigeria will be translating such calls into sustained cooperation, constructive political engagement and practical measures that support peaceful coexistence across the country.
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