By Awwal Umar Kontagora The youth of the Tijjaniya sect have claimed that they feel “healed” following the arrest of Sheikh Sani Khalifah ...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
The youth of the Tijjaniya sect have claimed that they feel “healed” following the arrest of Sheikh Sani Khalifah Zaria, describing the incident as a wake-up call that has ended a period of disunity and division among them.
The youths made this statement during an urgent unity meeting in Minna, the capital of Niger State, which brought together members of the Tijjaniya and other Sufi-based Islamic groups following the teachings of Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani.
From the outset, the young followers suspected that the arrest was part of a broader attempt to sow discord among the sect’s leaders, making them vulnerable to attacks and misinformation.
Faruk Yusuf Balarabe (Sidi Sadauki), a long-time activist and writer, emphasised that Sheikh Sani Khalifah Zaria, a key figure who had contributed to the election of President Alhaji Bola Ahmad Tinubu, was unjustly targeted. “Whether a crime has been committed or not is the court’s prerogative. But it is the right of the accused to be presented in court and given the opportunity to defend himself,” he said.
Balarabe further warned that if Sheikh Sani is not brought to court by the 13th of the month, the Tijjaniya youths would consider withdrawing their political support in future elections. “As young followers of the Tijjaniya, we understand the role the government seeks to play among us during elections. Our unity and loyalty to our predecessors are unwavering, and we will not allow external forces to exploit or divide us,” he stated.
Alhaji Ibrahim Aminu Wushishi, a leader of the Tijjaniya youth movement, added that the group is focused on consolidating its unity. “Our primary goal now is to ensure that all our actions are coordinated and reflect a single voice. The arrest of Sheikh Sani Khalifah Zaria, who has been a father figure and a unifying force, cannot be ignored,” he said.
He noted that the youths have realised the importance of safeguarding their community and preventing external influences from exploiting their followers. “We will no longer allow others to manipulate us for political or personal gain. We are committed to supporting leaders who respect our teachers and honour our values,” Alhaji Ibrahim said.
The youth leaders emphasised their adherence to religious guidance, stating, “God commands us to obey Him, His Messenger, and our righteous predecessors. We follow our sheikhs and teachers because they have guided us in understanding the Qur’an.”
The meeting concluded with plans to convene leading scholars to address the situation formally, followed by special prayers for guidance and protection. Alhaji Ibrahim added, “From now on, we will not watch our scholars be disrespected under the guise of politics. As conscientious citizens, we recognise that the role of our teachers is to pray for the peace and well-being of our country.”
The gathering was attended by youth leaders from Sufi orders and Islamic religious organisations within and beyond Niger State, all expressing their frustration over the arrest of Sheikh Sani Khalifah Zaria and their commitment to unity.
.jpeg)
No comments