The Sokoto State Government has distanced itself from a self-proclaimed soothsayer, popularly known as Mai Shaho, over a viral video in which he allegedly performed a ritual while making claims about the outcome of the 2027 governorship election.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Director General of Media and Publicity, Abubakar Bawa, the government said it had no connection with the individual or his activities, describing attempts to link the administration to the alleged ritual as false and misleading.
The reaction followed the circulation of a video in which the soothsayer was seen allegedly burying a live goat while claiming that the governorship candidate of an opposition political party would fail to win the support of voters in the 2027 election.
The government said neither the administration nor the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, had any relationship with the man.
“The government does not endorse or associate with soothsayers, marabouts, magicians or anyone claiming supernatural powers to influence political outcomes. We remain committed to democratic principles and firmly believe that elections are decided by the will of the people through the ballot box,” the statement said.
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The statement said the administration remains committed to democratic principles, constitutional governance and peaceful political participation.
He stressed that election results should be decided by the votes of the people rather than by rituals, prophecies or other mystical claims.
The government also dismissed claims that the alleged prediction about a possible contest between Governor Ahmed Aliyu and the African Democratic Congress, ADC, governorship candidate, Manir Muhammad Dan’Iya, reflected its position.
It insisted that the viral video was the personal action of the individual involved and should not be seen as representing the views, policies or political strategy of the Sokoto State Government or the APC.
The statement added that the government would not tolerate actions capable of creating public distrust, encouraging superstition or increasing political tension ahead of the 2027 elections.
It added that any conduct contrary to those religious and moral values could not receive the support or protection of the state government.
“We urge those engaging in practices that are contrary to the teachings of Islam to desist immediately and refrain from using politics to promote actions capable of creating religious controversy or misleading the public. We also call on the Sokoto State Hisbah Board and other relevant authorities to investigate the matter and take appropriate action where necessary,” the statement said.
