Abubakar Mahmud Gumi (1924-1992) : his thought and contribution to Islamic reformism in Northern Nigeria /|cby Huzaifa Aliyu Jangebe

Abstract

Islamic reformism has been the prime concern of Muslim scholars and intellectuals since the 18th century C.E. and as a means to arrest the mushrooming and all around decay in their societies. In northern Nigeria, Muslims are plunged into backwardness because of the colonial legacy and the rising of un-Islamic practices (bida` or innovations) that have been instrumental in instigating serious problems in the region as well as the entire country. Sheikh Abubakar Mahmud Gumi was a great reformer who stood firm to salvage the society from further religious decline during his time. He believed that the cause for the Muslims` decline in the area was their departure from practising the pristine Islam as laid down in the Qur`an and the authentic Sunnah. In his quest for a solution, Sheikh Gumi articulated a reformative drive, which contravened the long-aged traditions of northern Nigeria. Thus, this study examines the reformist ideas of Sheikh Gumi and the degree of their influence on the society. The study employs an analytical research method and is based on a collection of primary sources, particularly Sheikh Gumi`s masterpiece al-Aqidah al-Sahihah bi Muwafaqat al-Shariah (The Correct Belief in Line with the Shariah) and some of his other major writings. The roots or main features of Gumi`s thought, as well as his contributions to Islamic reformism in northern Nigeria, particularly in the educational, judicial and political fields, are highlighted.