Religion

By Usman Abdullahi Koli

Have you ever walked into a mosque and sensed its walls whispering stories? Stories of faith, of community, of lives transformed? One quiet afternoon in Bauchi, as the sun cast long shadows across the courtyard of a newly renovated mosque, I found myself in the middle of such a conversation. But this was no ordinary dialogue. 

The mosque itself began to speak, its voice a blend of gratitude and reverence, joined by the echoes of countless lives impacted by one man—Dr. Yakubu Adamu, the Commissioner of Finance and Economic Development, affectionately known as Mai Masallaci.

The mosque’s voice was calm yet commanding, like the adhan that calls the faithful to prayer. “Sit,” it seemed to say, “and listen to the story of a man who saw me not as a crumbling structure but as a sanctuary of hope. 

When Dr. Yakubu Adamu first approached me, I was in ruins—my walls cracked, my roof leaking, my courtyard silent. But he saw beyond my decay. He saw the souls who gathered within me, the prayers that rose from my floors, and the community that depended on me. With his hands, he rebuilt me. With his heart, he revived me. And with his faith, he reminded me of my purpose—to be a house of Allah, a home of unity and hope.”

I leaned in, captivated, as the mosque continued: “But he did not stop with me. He traveled across the state, seeking out my brothers—mosques that had been forgotten and abandoned. He gave them new life, not just as structures, but as symbols of faith and community. He understood that building a mosque is a bridge between this world and the hereafter.”

Then, another voice joined the conversation—a gentle, heartfelt murmur that seemed to come from the air around us. It was the voice of his philanthropic gestures, the countless acts of kindness that had touched thousands of lives.  

“He is not just a builder of mosques,” the voice said. “He is a builder of lives. I have seen him provide food for the hungry, scholarships for the bright but needy, and medical care for the sick. I have watched him sit with the poor, listen to their struggles, and offer material support and hope. He does not see charity as an obligation; he sees it as a privilege, a way to draw closer to Allah.”

The mosque nodded in agreement, its dome catching the sunlight like a crown. “Yes,” it said. “He is a man who understands that true success lies in serving others. His humanitarian services are not just acts of kindness; they are acts of worship.”

As the conversation deepened, the voices grew more numerous, each adding a layer to the story of Dr. Yakubu Adamu. The students he had supported spoke of his belief in education as a tool for empowerment. The elderly he had cared for praised his compassion and respect for the aged. The farmers he had assisted shared stories of his commitment to economic development and self-sufficiency. And through it all, one theme emerged: Dr. Adamu is a man who lives for others, a man whose life is proof of the teachings of Islam.

Now glowing with pride, the mosque turned to me and said, “But perhaps what sets him apart is his humility. He does not seek recognition or praise. He works quietly, tirelessly, knowing that his true reward lies with Allah. He is a leader who leads by example, a servant who serves with love, and a believer who lives by faith.”

As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the mosque’s courtyard, I felt a profound awe. This was not just a story of a man; it was a story of a legacy—a legacy of faith, service, and humanity. Dr. Yakubu Adamu is not just a commissioner but a guardian of the people, a protector of the faith, and a pillar of hope.

The mosque, its voice now a whisper, offered a final thought: “Tell the world about him. Let them know that in a time when selflessness is rare, Dr. Yakubu Adamu stands as a reminder of what it means to live a life of purpose. Inform them that his work is not just for this world but for the hereafter. And convey that we, the mosques and the hearts he has touched, are forever grateful.”

As I left the mosque that evening, the call to Maghrib prayer echoed through the streets, reminding me of the divine connection that Dr. Yakubu Adamu has strengthened through his work. His story is not just one of bricks and mortar, food and medicine, or governance and development. It is a story of faith, love, and a man who has dedicated his life to improving this world and the hereafter. May Allah bless him, protect him, and grant him the highest place in Jannah. Ameen.

Usman Abdullahi Koli wrote via mernoukoli@gmail.com.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

The Nigerian political landscape is never short of intrigue, speculation, and high-stakes maneuvering. The latest storm centers around Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), and allegations made by his ‘former’ ally and friend, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State.

El-Rufai has accused Ribadu of secretly positioning himself for a presidential bid in 2031, alleging that he is working to eliminate key northern politicians before the elections. In an Arise TV interview, El-Rufai said:

“Somebody wants to destroy my reputation. Why? Nuhu Ribadu wants to be president in 2031. He has to eliminate every northerner that he thinks is on the radar.”

These allegations have sparked intense debate, given Ribadu’s current position as the NSA, one of the most powerful offices in the country. The role demands absolute loyalty to the sitting president, and any sign of personal political ambition would be politically dangerous.

However, Ribadu has vehemently denied the claims, dismissing any suggestion that he is planning a presidential run in 2031. In his response, he stated:

“For the avoidance of doubt, I want to put it on record that I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anybody.”

Currently, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is in the second year of his first term and is widely anticipated to run for reelection in 2027. If he wins, his administration would extend until 2031. Considering this timeline, it seems premature for anyone in Tinubu’s inner circle—particularly someone in such a sensitive position as the NSA—to be planning a presidential bid so early.

To be fair to Ribadu, every seasoned political observer knows he is too intelligent and experienced to make such a politically reckless move. Launching a presidential campaign while still serving in a crucial role would create unnecessary distractions, fuel rivalries, and generate deep animosities within the government. It would also call his loyalty to Tinubu into question.

So why is Ribadu being linked to 2031?

First, his close relationship with President Tinubu has earned him the title of Tinubu’s golden boy (Dan Fulani). His reputation as a disciplined, intelligent,  experienced, and competent leader makes him a natural contender in any discussion about potential successors. Any rising political figure will inevitably attract speculation in a political climate where future ambitions are often carefully managed behind closed doors but widely discussed publicly by everyday people.

Second, the political class understands that succession planning is always at play, even when not publicly acknowledged. While Ribadu may not currently campaign for the presidency, political opportunities can arise unexpectedly. Nigerian politicians are known for their ability to seize the moment when the circumstances align, even if it was not originally in their plans.

Politics is unpredictable, and today’s denials can quickly become tomorrow’s declarations. Whether or not Nuhu Ribadu harbors presidential ambitions, the reality is that he possesses the qualities of a strong contender—experience, credibility, and proximity to power. If the opportunity presented itself, would he take it?

Only time will tell. But one thing is sure: The road to 2031 has already begun, and the political maneuvering will only intensify in the coming years.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja via zaymohd@yahoo.com.

Prof. Abdussamad Umar Jibia

Throughout the week, discussions have arisen following the Christian Association of Nigeria’s (CAN) rejection of the closure of schools in some predominantly Muslim states in the North. In that context, I came across another article published by the Daily Trust on the same topic, written by a Muslim, or at least someone with a Muslim name; I cannot ascertain his faith.

This morning, I took some time away from assessing my students to read the articles. It is unfair to respond to a statement that one has not read. 

I read the press release by CAN a few times over, hoping I might find some wisdom. Unfortunately, I couldn’t. CAN is its usual self, apprehensive of anything Islamic out of fear of losing relevance. 

Christianity in Nigeria, as I often say, is merely surviving due to the presence of Islam. For instance, if Muslims were to cease going on hajj, all the Christian pilgrims’ boards, including the central one in Abuja, would naturally wither away. It is only when Muslims discuss Shariah that Christians recall the existence of Ecclesiastical law, which many of them know little about. The examples are numerous.

This time around, CAN understands that closing schools “for an extended period disrupts academic schedules and threatens the educational advancement of millions of students”. What CAN has forgotten is that Nigerian schools have always been closed for the same “extended period” of at least one month since our colonial days for Christian festivals. In fact, the Nigerian school calendar is designed to close all schools for at least two weeks each for Easter and Christmas celebrations. 

The Christian holidays have been officially recognised and embedded in our school calendar in a so-called secular country. If CAN were concerned about religious balance, as they falsely claim, they would have advocated for the cancellation of the Christmas and Easter holidays and proposed something neutral.

Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the signatory to the press release, wanted Nigerians to believe that the closure of schools during Ramadan would compromise the education of Christian children and devalue Christian communities in the North. This is an admission by the CAN President that the education of Nigerian Muslim children has always been compromised and that Nigerian Muslims have no value in Nigeria since their children are forced to remain out of schools for Christian festivals.

I am waiting for the CAN President and his team to go to court as they have threatened. What I would like to assure them is that Nigerian Muslims are now wiser. CAN hasn’t yet seen anything. All traces of Christianity as imposed on other Nigerians must be removed from our national life. It is just a matter of time.

The opening argument of the Daily Trust writer is that there is no single injunction in Islam mandating the closure of schools during Ramadan. I wish he would tell us where Islam mandates the closure of schools for Christmas and Easter. Islam is a complete way of life. Isn’t that what he is trying to argue? Does Islam not prevent us from blindly copying Jews and Christians?

From the beginning, Muslims have paid for the unity of the North and, indeed, Nigeria with their religion and, in some instances, their blood. This must stop at some point. If we are to remain united, then the rights of Muslims must be acknowledged and granted.

The people who colonised us were Christians. This explains why Christianity is ingrained in almost every aspect of our national life. Now that Muslims are expressing dissent, some people are calling for unity. A shared Northern identity? Yes. One Nigeria? Yes. One religion? No, we are Muslims and will not continue to accept the imposition of another religion upon us.

Finally, let me call on our Governors and, indeed, the Federal Government to embark on a comprehensive reform of our school system to align it with our values and beliefs. All neocolonial items should be removed.

Prof. Abdussamad Umar Jibia can be contacted via aujibia@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has responded to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) regarding four northern states’ decision to close schools until after Ramadan.

Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi are among the states involved. These states announced the closure of schools until the end of the Ramadan fasting period.

The Director of MURIC, Professor Ishaq Akintola, accused CAN of interfering in Muslim matters and Islam. He argued that this indicated that CAN wants to speak on behalf of both Christians and Muslims, which he believes is inappropriate.

MURIC called on CAN to focus on its own affairs and refrain from commenting on matters that are not of concern to it.

By Uzair Adam

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Saturday, March 1, as the first day of Ramadan.

He made the declaration in a nationwide broadcast, stating that the Sultanate Council’s moon sighting committee had received credible reports from traditional rulers and religious leaders across the country confirming the sighting of the new crescent.

The Sultan urged Muslims to dedicate themselves to worship during the holy month and use the period to pray for Nigeria and its leaders.

He also called for peaceful coexistence among citizens and encouraged wealthy individuals to support the less privileged in observing the fast with ease.

While praying for God’s guidance and wisdom for the nation’s leaders, he emphasized the importance of unity and compassion during Ramadan.

By Uzair Adam

The crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan has been sighted in Saudi Arabia, the moon sighting committee announced on Friday evening.

The Daily Reality reports that with this confirmation, the holy month will commence on Saturday, March 1.

Observatories across the Kingdom, including those in Sudair and Tumair, confirmed the sighting of the moon.

This follows an earlier call by the Supreme Court on Thursday, urging Muslims to look for the crescent on Friday evening.

The court advised anyone who sights the moon, whether with the naked eye or binoculars, to report their observation to the nearest court or contact a local center for guidance on submitting their testimony.

Saudi Arabia’s moon sighting committee routinely monitors the skies ahead of Ramadan’s expected start date and encourages other Muslims to participate in the sighting process.

By Sani Bello Hamza 

I fight the muse to write about controversial religious issues, not because of my shyness but because of their contentious nature. Controversy and diversity are inseparable from religion. Religion presents simple concepts as complex and difficult ideas as harsh to protect personal interests. I won’t distort the truth, so please stay calm.

For example, scholars interpret many concepts differently in Islam to reflect their beliefs, way of life, and perception of Islam. Each scholar and his disciples claim to be faithful adherents of the traditions and way of life of the holy Prophet as laid down in the holy Quran and Sunnah. This could also be seen as the foundation of division and diverse opinions in Islam, which subsequently gave birth to numerous sects under its umbrella.

The Origin of this division and controversy can also be traced to the first few years after the holy Prophet’s death, a period when the Prophet was absent and no longer present to approve or disapprove of his companions’ actions and inactions. Thus, hypocrites and intruders could insert their opinions into interpretation and successfully fabricate Hadiths to protect their interests and justify the actions of political leaders with ease. Truth was enclosed and made very difficult to unravel.

Another perspective was a Hadith reported by Imam Muslim (in his book Sahih Muslim), which states that after the Prophet’s death, companions were divided on how to interpret his will, Islamic rites, and the wordings of the Holy Quran. Innocent Muslim faithful were confused about whether to follow Abubakar (RA) ‘s opinion or stick to Ali and Fatima’s (AS) views and teachings. This can also be perceived as the origin of division and sectarianism in Islam. 

Fast-forward centuries after the Prophet’s death. Endless questions arose from complicated real-life scenarios whose remedies were not expressly provided in the Quran and Sunnah, and Muslim Jurists resorted to the exercise of IJTIHAD to give answers. Their diverse interpretation of the tenets and principles of Islam led to the emergence of the FOUR MAJOR SUNNI SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT: the Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’I, and Hanbali schools of thought. 

That’s, by the way, so let’s get back to the subject matter.

Differences and diversity are rooted in every human society. Conflict, controversy, division, and differences are inevitable. Indeed, mankind was created differently to interact with and know one another. However, in the sight of Allah, the only righteous among them is the noble. In essence, we must embrace unity in our diversity. 

This is one of the reasons whenever I’m about to criticise or chastise a fellow human for having a contrary view or belonging to a different sect or creed, I promptly recall the above verse; 

“hold fast to the Rope of Allah, altogether and be not divided.” (Āli ‘Imrān: 103)”

It is heartbreaking that in this part of the world, (Nigeria), we have deviated from the above cited verse. Our scholars find solace and joy in criticising one another. A Sufi believes he is the only righteous Muslim; an Izala scholar believes the Shi’a and Sufis are all innovators (Bid’a) and destined to be in hell fire. We are not open to accommodating diverse opinions and celebrating the monopoly of opinion in religion. Sadly!

I believe the concept of Bid’a is one of the most abused Islamic concepts; scholars exploit it to criticise followers of other religious creeds and advocate for the eradication of all other sects due to their non-conformity with their beliefs or schoolsof thought. 

Linguistically, Bid’a simply means innovation. That is, commencing or performing an act that has no precedence in Islam—an action which neither the Prophet nor his companions performed during their lifetime.

The above definition is undoubtedly vague and general. Some Jurists believe there should be an exception to this because even the Prophet’s companions were reported to have innovated certain acts after his demise. Their pillar of argument is that the compilation of the holy Quran and Salatul Taraweeh were not initiatives of the prophet but rather initiated by caliph Abubakar and Umar, respectively. 

Could this also be categorised as innovation and leading to hell fire? 

Other Jurists argued there are no exceptions. Every innovation is Haram and leads to hell fire. Among the followers of this school are the members of Jama’atul Izalatul Bid’a Wa Iqamatu sunnah known as IZALA in Nigeria. 

Jurists are also divided on whether there are good innovations or whether all innovations are bad and lead to hellfire. Many scholars believe all innovations are “Dhalalah,” and all innovations lead to hellfire. 

In a simpler term, Muslims can not perform actions without connection with the Prophet or his companions. Such actions will lead them to hell fire. This school prohibits innovations such as celebrating the Maulud of the prophet and others. Ibn Taimiyya is among the proponents of this school. 

Other scholars, such as Ibn Hajar, believe there should be a Bid’a Hasanah—good innovation—to encompass historical events such as Salatul Taraweeh, the compilation of the holy Quran, Usman’s introduction of Adhan, and other innovative acts of the Prophet’s companions. 

Now, back to the topic.

Between Qur’an Convention and Maulud…

Over the years, the Izala sect in Nigeria is known for its fierce and uncompromising battle with other sects (Shi’a and Darika) to eradicate all forms of Innovations in Islam. Maulud is at the forefront of their campaign. 

Wherever and whenever they found themselves, they delivered anti-Maulud sermons, classified those practicing it as unbelievers, and deterred their followers from celebrating Maulud and other innovative acts. 

From Sheikh Ahmad Gumi and Sheikh Jafar Mahmud until the baton was handed to Sheikh Kabiru Gombe, they all claimed Maulud is Bid’a because nowhere in the Quran, Sunnah, or History of the Prophet is it overtly or covertly statedthat the Prophet or his companions celebrated the occasion.

We were all meant to believe that Maulud has no basis in Islam. Fortunately, or unfortunately, today, in a revolution-like scenario, the maiden Quran Convention is about to unfold in Abuja. It will feature scholars from different sects, including the ANTI-MAULUD scholars, who are known for their uncompromising criticisms of Bid’a innovations.

Now, the question that kept creeping into our minds is: what differentiates the Qur’anic Convention from the Maulud?

Relying on the definition of Bid’a, the Quran, Sunnah, and history do not overtly or covertly state that the prophet organized a similar gathering. Although I believe it’s a good initiative to honor the memorizers and Qur’an teachers, we must not shy away from calling a spade a spade. 

Based on the convention’s objectives, Could a Maulud organised to Foster unity, promote intellectual discourse, and encourage Islamic scholarship be considered Halal? 

Will the scholars attend the Maulud?

We should call a spade a spade and give Caesar what belongs to him, simple!

Sani Bello Hamza is a law student at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He writes from Zaria and can be contacted atsanibellohamza@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

Kiru Tahfeezul Qur’an Secondary School has graduated 1,643 students who have memorized the Holy Qur’an.

The graduation ceremony, held on Sunday at the school’s conference hall, celebrated students who completed their studies between 2019 and 2024.

In a statement, Balarabe Abdullahi Kiru, Director of Public Enlightenment at the Kano State Ministry of Education, disclosed the achievement.

Speaking at the event, the Kano State Commissioner of Education, Dr. Ali Haruna Makoda, congratulated the graduates, describing their accomplishment as a divine blessing.

He commended the school for its role in promoting Qur’anic and Islamic education, recognizing it as one of the best in the state.

Represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Bashir Baffa Muhammad, the commissioner announced the state government’s plan to renovate the school under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration.

He noted that a team of engineers had recently assessed the school’s infrastructure to prepare a bill of quantity for the renovation.

Dr. Makoda reiterated the government’s commitment to improving education through various initiatives aimed at enhancing learning conditions.

He urged the graduates to uphold the values instilled in them and be exemplary representatives of their alma mater.

Earlier, the school’s director, Alhaji Mamuda Abdullahi, highlighted the institution’s impact, noting that many of its alumni have attained prominence within and outside Kano.

He added that the school currently has 1,400 students from all 44 local government areas of the state and beyond.

Dignitaries at the event included the Chairman of Kiru Local Government Area, Alhaji Abdullahi Sa’idu Kafin Maiyaki, and the Executive Secretary, Alhaji Rabiu Saleh Gwarzo.

The ceremony underscored the school’s commitment to quality Islamic education and the Kano State Government’s efforts to support learning and infrastructure development.

By Aisar Fagge

In its effort to combat moral decadence among youths, the Centre for Islamic Civilisation and Interfaith Dialogue (CICID) organized a 3rd International Conference on the theme “The Role of Moral Etiquettes of Islamic Civilisation in the Development of Human Communities: Assessment of Past and Present,” held at the Centre for Excellence, Bayero University, Kano, from 3rd to 5th February 2025.

During his welcome remark, Associate Professor Taufiq Abubakar Hussaini, the director of the centre, said, “This year’s conference is guided by witnessing moral decadence in all spheres of our lives.”

“We anticipate engaging discussions, insightful presentations and collaborative efforts towards a shared goal of promoting moral etiquettes, good character, peace, understanding and unity. These are the bedrock of Islamic civilization, which has persistently built many nations and civilisations over centuries.

“I encouraged the participants to actively participate, exchange ideas, form connections that will extend beyond the confines of this conference so that our various societal ills will heal from the inevitable doom,” Prof Hussaini remarked.

As the event’s promoter, the head of Markazu Khulafa Al-Rashidin, Sheikh Abdulwahab Abdallah (Imam Ahlissunnah Wal Jama’ah), thanked the management of Bayero University, Kano, for “establishing the centre that focuses on building the morality of the ummah.”

Sheikh Abdulwahab urged the centre to introduce a programme or course that teaches politicians the politics and exemplary leadership style of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) so that they can learn how he led the entire Ummah with justice and fairness.

“This North is blessed with great people. The bad ones are few. It is our collective duty to educate and integrate them to have politicians and leaders who are Islamically rooted and God-fearing”, the Sheikh concluded.

The conference witnessed the attendance of prominent people such as Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf represented by the Commissioner of Education, Dr Ali Haruna, Barrister Ali Sa’adu Birnin Kudu (former Jigawa State governor), Prof. Muhammad Sani Umar R/Lemo, Prof. Emeritus Muhammad Sani Zaharadden, Sheikh Tijjani Bala Qalarawi, Prof. Ahmad Murtada, Prof Babangida, Prof. Muhammad Muslim Ibrahim and many host of other academic dons, Islamic clerics, security chiefs, wealthy individuals and participants from both local and international educational institutions.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Government has reiterated its commitment to enhancing the Qur’anic education system in the state.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Director of Public Enlightenment at the Ministry of Education, Balarabe Abdullahi Kiru, said the government remains committed to improving Qur’anic education and creating a conducive learning environment for students across the state.

The State Commissioner of Education, Gwani Dr. Ali Haruna Makoda, gave the assurance while receiving executive members of the Parent-Teacher Association of Government Tahfeezul Qur’an Secondary School, Kiru, during a courtesy visit to his office.

Makoda, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Alhaji Bashir Baffa Muhammad, underscored the significance of Qur’anic education in promoting peace and stability among the Muslim Ummah.

He assured that the government would continue supporting the system to build a better society.

“This administration has done a lot in terms of providing infrastructure in schools and integrating Islamiyya, Qur’anic, and Tsangaya education to ensure access to quality Islamic and Western education in the state,” he said.

Speaking on the upcoming Qur’anic graduation of Government Tahfeezul Qur’an Secondary School, Kiru, the commissioner described the event as timely and pledged the ministry’s support.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Alhaji Tajuddeen Gambo, lauded the school’s contribution to Qur’anic and Islamic education in Kano and beyond.

“The Kano State Government is very proud of Kiru Tahfeezul Qur’an, considering its role in propagating Qur’anic and Islamic education, not only in Kano but across the country,” he said.

He added that the government would ensure the renovation of dilapidated buildings in the school to provide a better learning environment.

The Chairman of the school’s Parent-Teacher Association, Alhaji Umar Natagunda Gezawa, said they visited the commissioner to brief him on preparations for the Qur’anic graduation ceremony scheduled for Sunday, February 9, 2025.

“The graduation covers students from 2019 to 2024, with a total of 1,643 students who have memorized the Holy Qur’an,” he said.

He also noted that the school has produced many graduates who have become prominent figures across the country.

“The school has played a vital role in shaping future leaders, and Kano is proud of them,” he added.

The school’s principal, Alhaji Mamuda, applauded the government’s decision to include the school in the first batch of renovation projects.

“The bill of quantity has already been assessed by the ministry under the governor’s directive to facilitate the project,” he said.