The Ganucious Trend: A Call for Religious and Political Independence in Oduduwa Land

In a move that highlights the civility of the Yoruba people in Nigeria, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, better known as KWAM 1, introduced and popularized the term ‘ganucious’ to critique the behaviors of Alfas (Muslim clerics) during the 8th day prayers at his mother’s funeral. Instead of mourning the loss of Hajia Halimotu Shadiya Anifowose’s 105 beautiful years of life, KWAM 1 challenged the avaricious nature of those who seek to enforce their will beyond their rightful sphere. This act, while controversial, underscores the importance of questioning cultural and religious traditions within the framework of modern society.

Understanding the Term ‘Ganu’

Ace Journalist Tunde Odesola of The Punch Newspaper defines ‘ganu’ as a six-letter Yoruba phrase meaning to “set open the mouth upon” a desired outcome. However, his examples differ from KWAM 1’s application. Using Tunde Odesola’s literal translation, KWAM 1 provides his own context: (1) Sultan’s ‘ganucious’ influence over Yoruba Muslims’ votes, and (2) attempts by Fulani leaders to expand their influence in Oduduwa Land. The term also applies to Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategy to assert political dominance in Igbo Land, mirroring the Fulani’s approach in religious politics.

Sultan of Sokoto’s Call for Sharia

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, recently called for Sharia law in certain areas of Ekiti and Oyo States in Nigeria. This call is viewed by many as ‘ganucious,’ or excessive interference beyond religious duties. The sultan’s role should be limited to his traditional dominion of Sokoto, and his expansionist ambitions in Muslim-majority regions of Oduduwa Land are seen as an intolerable indulgence.

In contrast, evolved Islamic practices in countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates emphasize development. These practices contrast sharply with the Fulani-influenced Fodionism prevalent in Nigeria, which has resulted in profound poverty and political unrest in areas like Sokoto. This disparity raises questions about the true nature of religion and its influence on society.

Christianity in Nigeria: An Example of Religious Independence

Catholic and Protestant denominations in Nigeria operate independently without claiming any political thrones or seeking to dominate through religious influence. The Anglican Church in Nigeria, for instance, separated from the Church of England due to doctrinal differences. This separation demonstrates the value of religious institutions questioning and evolving their practices within the context of a nation.

Similarly, if the Anglican Church in Nigeria had not challenged the concept of same-sex marriage, it likely wouldn’t have been a topic of widespread discussion and acceptance today. The Christian churches in Nigeria face challenges, yet they avoid imposing their doctrines on ethnic territories to the extent seen in certain Muslim quarters.

Usman Dan Fodio’s Legacy and Its Impact

Usman dan Fodio’s invasion of Hausa Land in 1804 established a precedent that paralleled colonialism’s unilateral amalgamation of diverse ethnic territories into one country. The subsequent years saw his descendants expanding their influence through violence and installing Fulani leaders in various settlements across Nigeria. This expansion is seen as a threat to ethnic sovereignty and a form of religious politics.

However, when the British colonized Nigeria, Lord Lugard extinguished the suzerainty of Usman dan Fodio on Hausa Land on March 20, 1903, and installed a new Sultan on March 21, 1903. This move restored the traditional statecraft of ethnic groups to a titular status, preventing the excessive influence of a foreign religion.

Pristine Islam vs. Fodionism

The essence of Islam, often referred to as pristine Islam, promotes development and respect for indigenous practices. This is evident in the prosperous Islamic states of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Conversely, Fodionism, influenced by the teachings of Usman dan Fodio, has a darker history rooted in tyranny and exploitation.

The Yoruba Islamic community, distinct from the Fulani-influenced Fodionism, does not resort to terrorism. This contrasts with the Fulani approach to religion, which often serves as a facade for political control and censorship.

The Role of the Sultan and His Followers

The Sultan of Sokoto’s role is predominantly that of a titular monarch representing the Fulani ethnic group. Extending this role to become a ‘monarch’ of all Muslims in Nigeria is controversial and potentially dangerous. Other religious leaders in Nigeria, such as those from the Usmaniyya, Tijjaniyya, Qadiriyya, Izala, Shi’ia, and others, should focus on their religious duties without seeking to interfere in political affairs.

The Sultan’s actions, particularly those of hosting controversial figures like Dr. Zakir Naik, who openly challenges Nigerian sovereignty, raise serious concerns. Dr. Naik, branded as a preacher of violence and terror by several countries, has no legitimate place in Nigeria’s political discourse.

Security and Economic Implications

The ongoing conflict and terrorist activities in Nigeria, driven by those inspired by the Sultan and his followers, have severe economic and social implications. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that over 2.2 million Nigerians were kidnapped in one year, totaling more than the population of 50 United Nations member states, according to a Daily Trust report. Additionally, over 614,000 Nigerians lost their lives during the same period, significantly higher than the casualties from the Russia-Ukraine war.

The ransom payments made in connection with these kidnappings, estimated at over N2.2 trillion (Nigerian naira), exacerbate the country’s economic crisis. The proliferation of terrorism and kidnappings, which are often supported by those claiming to represent Islam, threatens Nigeria’s sovereignty and development.

The Treaty of Westphalia and Ethnic Sovereignty

The Treaty of Westphalia, signed on October 24, 1648, established the principle of state sovereignty and the importance of respecting minority rights. In the context of Nigeria, this treaty underscores the importance of ethnic groups retaining their freedom to practice religion and participate in politics independently.

The call for Sharia law by the Sultan of Sokoto is, in essence, a challenge to Nigeria’s secular constitution. Ethno-religious conflicts in Nigeria, particularly those involving the Fulani and other communities, undermine the principles of democracy and equity.

Democratic Principles and Ethnic Relations in Nigeria

Nigeria’s democratic system should reflect the true wishes and sovereignty of its people. This includes respecting the inalienable rights of ethnic groups to determine their religious practices and political affiliations without undue influence from external groups. The current political landscape, dominated by the influence of Fodionism, is seen as antithetical to democratic principles.

The key question remains: What is the Sultan’s true role? Is he a titular monarch of the Fulani ethnic group or an aspirant for control over Muslim territories in Nigeria? His actions suggest the latter, raising concerns about the integrity of Nigeria’s constitutional framework.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

It is crucial for Nigerians to rise up and protest against the excessive influence of the Sultan and his followers in state and federal politics. The Ganucious trend, while controversial, serves as a reminder of the importance of questioning cultural and religious practices that infringe upon ethnic sovereignty.

The principles enshrined in the Treaty of Westphalia and the evolution of Christianity in Nigeria highlight the benefits of religious and political independence. Nigeria must return to its roots of regional federalism and respect the sovereignty and rights of its diverse ethnic groups.

Let the Sultan and his allies recognize that religious laissez-faire is not a threat but an opportunity for Nigeria’s development. It’s time to reclaim Nigeria’s constitutional values and ensure that all ethnic groups are treated equitably in the governance of the nation.

Your voice matters. Speak out against religious and ethnic exploitation, join the discourse, and help shape a more peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

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