The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Abubakar III, has asked traders not to increase prices of foodstuffs as Muslims’ month of fasting approaches.

“I use this medium to call on all market people who sell things to be fearful of what Almighty God will ask them when they get to him on the day of judgement,” Mr Abubakar said.

He said traders should rather reduce prices of commodities to receive God’s blessings.

“Instead of increasing prices of foodstuffs and other essentials, please try to reduce the prices so as to get the blessing of Almighty God,” he said.

The Sultan made the call on Saturday in Bauchi at the close of a week-long 2022 National Qur’an Recitation Competition hosted by the Bauchi State government in collaboration with Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto.

He stressed the need for traders to be wary of the day of judgement and to avoid extortion of patrons.

The Sultan, who is also the President-General of Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, called on governments at all levels to evolve measures to reduce cost of living in the country.

“I think it is left to all of us in authority to work together and bring this rise in cost of foodstuffs to affordable levels so all of us can have a successful Ramadan.

“I believe it’s not too much to ask the government after all, we elected you into office to serve us and not for us to serve you,” the Sultan said.

Muslims across the world will observe a 30-day fasting period (Ramadan) beginning in April.

(NAN)