The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged traditional institutions across the country to document their history themselves rather than allow outsiders to distort their heritage.

The Sultan made the call on Wednesday in Zaria at the presentation of a book title “Emirs of Zazzau” a Biographical study from 1800-2925, as part of activities marking the sixth anniversary of the enthronement of the Emir of Zazzau, Amb. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli.

He commended the Emir for documenting the history of the emirate, describing the initiative as an important step towards preserving the identity and heritage of the people.

According to him, traditional institutions must take ownership of their history because they are better positioned to tell their stories accurately.

“You cannot allow someone to write your own history. You have to write your own history as it is because you know more than any other person,” he said.

The Sultan recalled that he had earlier challenged the Emir to emulate him by documenting the history of the Sokoto Caliphate, noting that he had published his own book, Sultans of Sokoto, many years ago.

He said the Zazzau history book was particularly significant because historians from the emirate’s four dynasties were involved in its production.

He also challenged other emirates across the country to undertake similar projects to ensure that their histories were properly documented for present and future generations.

“We need to know who we are, where we come from and where we are going. We should not allow social media to write whatever they want and try to change the course of history,” the Sultan said.

He warned against relying on accounts written by people unfamiliar with the history and traditions of Nigerian communities, saying such narratives could distort the past.

The Sultan also called on Nigerians to continue praying for the country’s leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, emirs and other traditional and political leaders.

He urged citizens to support their leaders and pray for them to succeed, stressing that the success of leaders would ultimately benefit the people they govern.

In his remarks, Kaduna state Governor, Mallam Uba Sani, applauded the Emir of Zazzau for the initiative, describing the book as an important contribution to preserving the history of the Emirate.

He urged the Emir to remain patient, continue listening to the people and make use of constructive advice for the development of the emirate.

The governor also expressed appreciation to the Sultan for his continued support to Zazzau Emirate and his presence at the anniversary and book presentation.

In his speech, the Emir of Zazzau said the publication was necessary due to some historical distortions and inaccuracies regarding the history of Zazzau.

The Emir said every community that fail to document and preserve its history risk losing its identity, heritage and connection with future generations.

The event was attended by former Vice-President Namadi Sambo, government officials, traditional rulers, scholars, historians, members of the Zazzau Emirate Council, among other dignitaries. (Daily Trust)