Sokoto, a state located in Nigeria’s north west over the weekend witnessed a celebration of culture, religion and politics. And it was replete with colour and royalty. The Sokoto Durbar.
[Photos] Nigeria: Sokoto Durbar – Colour, Power, Royalty, Culture and Celebration
This years’ durbar coincided with the 10th anniversary of the ascension to the throne of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad. He is also known as the ‘Sarkin Muslumi,’ the King of Muslims across the federation.
It brought together cultural/traditional leaders, religious leaders and had a heavy dose of politics. President Buhari was at the event, Governor of Sokoto, Borno and Imo states were present and former president Olusegun Obasanjo, who arrived on a horse back fully turbaned.
Obasanjo’s vice president, Atiku Abubakar was also in attendance. The leaders of Nigeria’s lawmaking chambers – Senate and House of Representatives – were also in attendance.
Beside the Sultan of Sokoto himself, the Emir of Kano – Muhammadu Sanusi II, leader of the Yuroba ethnic group, Ooni of Ife – Enitan Ogunwusi and the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Gbadebo were all present.
Cross section of traditional rulers from all parts of the country at #SokotoDurbar. A true celebration of culture pic.twitter.com/ao9pbRlxcH— Sokoto State Govt (@SokotoGovtHouse) November 5, 2016
Vehicle the Emir of Kano rode in to the durbar grounds
Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorochas
Former vice president, Atiku Abubakar salutes the Sultan
Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, he holds a chieftaincy title in the State
A famous priest, Bishop Kuka, could not help it, he also took a horse ride
There were more horses at the venue
The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, delivers his speech
Not just horses, there were camels as well
Alake of Egbaland, Oba Gbadebo arrives at the event
(R – L) The Governor of Sokoto State, President Buhari, the Sultan of Sokoto acknowledge the cheers from the people
(R – L) The Governor of Imo State, President Buhari, the Sultan of Sokoto and Governor of Sokoto
The dais mounted for the celebration with a cross section of the people who joined the celebrations
Shaban Abdur Rahman Alfa
Africanews, web journalist
Congo, Pointe Noire
alfa.shaban@africanews.com