Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhamamd Sa’ad Abubakar III, yesterday conferred the title of Sarkin Yakin Sakkwato on outgoing Governor Aliyu Wamakko.
The frontline monarch urged the people not expect the governor’s successor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, to be like him.
He said: “No two persons can be exactly the same in all respects of human existence. But I believe that with our support and cooperation, Tambuwal is capable of taking Sokoto State to its promised destination.”
Abubakar spoke yesterday at a farewell visit to Wamakko.
The monarch was accompanied by other traditional rulers and title holders in the Seat of Caliphate to the outgoing governor at the Government House in Sokoto.
Abubakar, who presented the governor’s letter of appointment as the Sarkin Yakin Sakkwato, said a date would be fixed for the turbaning.
The Emir noted that Wamakko had been a good representative, a steady planner, an honest and dedicated instrument for change.
He said: “We have seen all these qualities you exhibited for the good of the state and beyond. You worked for the peace, stability and security of the state and equally as an agent of true change, which has come to fruition.
“We have seen your work, which cuts across sectors of the state’s economy.
“We have all along been peaceful with you throughout your eight years in office without any misunderstanding.
“You have shown the world that you are capable and competent at defending the cause of your people and Nigerians.
“It is rare to find an outgoing governor who, in less than 24 hours, is still pulling a crowd of supporters wherever he goes. This is to say you are still needed. We hope you will continue to build on the legacies you are leaving behind.”
Wamakko thanked the Sultan for supporting his administration throughout its eight-year span.
The outgoing governor described the visit as historic in his life’s journey.
He pledged to always support the efforts to further develop the state.
Wamakko noted that change was a difficult phenomenon.
He said: “But with faith in Allah and good conscience, it is achievable.”
The outgoing governor solicited the support he enjoyed from the people to Tambuwal and his deputy, Alhaji Ahmad Aliyu.
He said the incoming administration was capable of taking the state ton greater heights.
Also, Wamakko received yesterday the state’s 2014 Hajj committee’s report.
The outgoing governor hoped it would guide the incoming administration to take the right decisions on future Hajj operations.
The report, which was submitted by the committee’s chairman and Senator-elect for Sokoto South, Ibrahim Abdullahi Danbaba Daboa, marked Wamakko’s last official function as governor.
Wamakko expressed appreciation to the committee for doing a good job.
He said: “I am sure the report will guide the incoming administration to ensure smooth hajj operations in subsequent exercises.
“I will like to use this opportunity to thank and extend my appreciation to all the sacrifices you made to ensure smooth and hitch-free conduct of the 2014 Hajj for the state’s contingent.
“I also appreciate the way and manner the Head of the state’s pilgrims’ agency cooperated and worked with you.”