The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has maintained that Islam does not compel anyone to embrace the religion, stressing that conversion must be a personal decision based on genuine conviction.
The traditional and religious leader made the position known while addressing issues surrounding religious tolerance, freedom of worship and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.
According to the Sultan, the Islamic faith does not support forcing individuals to abandon their existing religious beliefs or compelling them to accept Islam against their will.
He emphasised that religious conversion should come from personal understanding and willingness rather than intimidation, pressure or coercion.
The Sultan’s position also highlights the importance of respecting the religious choices of others, particularly in a diverse country like Nigeria, where people from different faiths live together.
He called for mutual understanding, tolerance and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians, regardless of their religious affiliations.
His remarks come amid ongoing national conversations about religious freedom, discrimination and the need to strengthen peaceful relationships between different religious communities.
The Sultan’s comments have also renewed discussions about the role of religious leaders in promoting unity and discouraging religious extremism across the country.
