ISLAMIC POLITICAL THOUGHT: AN ASSESSMENT OF SHEIKH ABUBAKAR MAHMUD GUMI`S THOUGHT ON POLITICS AND GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Islam refers to a comprehensive code that comprises all aspects of Muslim life concerning worldly affairs and the hereafter. In contrast to other religions, the separation of religion and the state is inconceivable for many. In Islam, the Qur`an uses the word dīn (religion) to describe both worldly lives and the hereafter, as in chapters: (6:32), (47:36) and (57:20). The secular norms of the separation between religion and politics are not only misleading but wrong. Although the Qur`an is almost silent about the specific legislations and rules concerning governance, it outlines the general principles of governance. The Sunnaof the Prophet (p.b.u.h), however, had clearly outlined its concepts. In twentieth-century Nigeria, Gumi carried the flag of reform to revive not only politics but generally Islamic practices. Hence, he became the most outspoken and controversial scholar on political matters of his time. Therefore, this paper assessed Gumi`s thoughts, principally about politics and governance in Nigeria. A textual analytical method has been adopted, using both primary and secondary sources to carry out this work. This method assisted us in examining and understanding Gumi’s thoughts on this important matter of human life in the context of the modern state of Nigeria. The findings of this paper show that Gumi`s view on politics had tremendously assisted in bringing the masses closer to political space. His advocacy on politics brought awareness among the public to dismiss the insinuation that modern politics is not part of Islam.

Keywords: Gumi, reform, politics, governance, assessment, Nigeria.