Opinion

Late Dr Ahmad Bamba:The Exit Of An Icon

Published

3 years ago

January 8, 2022

By Bin Isah

Of all events, death stands the best chance to hold the most central attention. It’s gripping, and its grasp strong. It resembles gravity, but its force is more powerful. And it always provokes shock, pain and grief. And no matter the frequency of its happening, it is still not a normalcy. Upon its occurrence, people will respond with the same reaction as ever before. Allah SWT put it as a test, a warning and a path to the final home. But some deaths hit harder than some, and some leave deeper scars than the ordinary.

On 7th of January, death had dawned upon us with its darkness. It took a light, that is what knowledge represents. A knowledgeable mind of higher erudition, a paragon of wisdom and virtue, an epitome of Islamic scholarship and understanding, Dr Ahmad Bamba, BUK, Kala Haddasana, is gone. And that means a chasm has been created, a gap that can never be refilled.

Breaking:Renown Hadith Translator Dr Ahmad Is Dead

When I first heard him in our home in my more younger days, I asked about him. I was curious to know, for something about him was indeed captivating. An elder brother of ours that used to bring his audio tapes to our abode said he was a teacher to Mallam Ja’afar. That’s the description that cut a long story short. We already knew Mallam Ja’afar, so he was the teacher of teachers, a scholar that produces scholars.

Dr Ahmad Bamba, was said to have appeared as a public preacher for three decades, that is, since his return from the Islamic University of Madina in 1991. In these periods, no any occupation had seduced him away from his devotion to his Islamic teaching and preaching. And this long time of service, on the path of Allah SWT and for the guidance of the people, is sufficient to provide a picture of a man with purpose, dignity and piety. His pleasure in the work had penetrated him so much that no any stress could disrupt it.

Even at 82, Dr Ahmad did not retire. His life had no any ambition but Da’awa service, informing people on how to live in the light of Divine Pleasure under the guidance of His Prophet, Muhammad SAW. He believed that people need to lead a righteous life, and in as much as he breathed he would have no any other endeavour. And it is clear that his life has been a blessed, graceful one. The grace that Allah SWT placed in his work is apparent. He lived with his faculties in function, and with such a vigor that scares even the energetic young. His thinking remained acute, his voice sounding, and his movement full of life. It’s the blessing of Allah SWT.

And what is more wonderful about Dr Ahmad Bamba is the way his style touches upon the tastes of all ages. The young and the old, men and women will tell you they like him. His Hausa language is original, his explanation lucid, and his treatment of matters loose, and that makes people listen to him with passion. He has a special knack for making the complex simple, and his grasp of social experience puts him at another edge. And his preaching is not boring, it’s full of fun.

Whoever remembers Dr Ahmad BUK will tell you that it’s by his reading of “isnad” he recognises him. In fact, “Kala Haddasana” is another name for him. Here is the man that spent his best time at service to the Prophetic Sunnah, teaching people the times and life of the Prophet SAW, as exemplified in his words and actions, at home and at away, making the Prophet SAW more accessible to the seeker. The prophet’s relationship with Allah SWT, with his wives, with other people across different paths and faiths, etc, Dr Ahmad leaves no any aspect without a word on its meaning and value based on the acceptable accounts.

The most popular, most reliable and well documented six books of hadith that are called “kutubus sitta” have been taught by him, and with such a precision that goes within the public purview. And Scholars that learn from him never miss his technical analysis of the . Both the public and the scholars are carried along, and this could only be done by an exceptionally phenomenal teacher. And Dr Ahmad is one. And that’s the greatest achievement that no one could beat him in its regard. He is the only champion in his league. His “Mawatta Malik” is even published into a voluminous, enriching book, and in the living language of the people, and that shows that his legacy will dance to the music of time.

Sheikh Muhammad bin Othman observed a moving Khubta, with tears breaking out of his eyes, and his breath choking him at throat. He recounted the condition in which he found Dr Ahmad at hospital, and described it as the most traumatizing one, but what Allah SWT decreed is the most prevailing. He said, “I saw knowledge before me, lying on the bed —ga ilimi kwance. Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Rajiun.” I could not do anything, we could do nothing about it, he added. “Dr was not even conscious. I left with a heavy heart, and the whole night I couldn’t sleep well.” In the morning, around 10:58, he was informed that Dr Ahmad was no more. Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Rajiun.

The death of Dr Ahmad recalls to life the life he has lived, and that its mark shall remain upon the mind of the living. It is however a void that stimulates remorse at the recess of people’s hearts, because such a loss is irreplaceable. Though his knowledge shall continue, and his wisdom be applied in the art living, discussing and teaching, his absence will leave many questions unanswered and many problems unsolved when they surface. There are gifts that leave with those that bear them. And Dr Ahmad is gone.

While being interviewed after the funeral prayer, Dr Sani Umar R/Lemo described the loss as huge, a bleak sign that knowledge is precipitating. He said that people will indeed feel the emptiness occasioned by Dr Ahmad’s leaving. Of all their lives, they know Dr Ahmad with teaching and preaching. He is a guide, a father, a guardian, as Sheikh Dr Abdallah G/Kaya put it. To all scholars, he is a role model, an example to be emulated. And scholars from different parts of the world have expressed their sadness over the loss. And to Allah SWT we all belong, and to him is our return.

I was at the graveyard, close to his grave, and what I saw and felt in that moment will stay with me for a longest while. In fact, the entire experience shall be memorable. People were swallowed by grief, held by remorse and chained by love. Upon the arrival of his body, I found myself frozen with words and motions. I remained silent, only feeling the sensation of the pain that engulfed me. I shed tears, and over the fact that Dr Ahmad was truly gone. Here is a knowledge in shroud, a remarkable personality buried, a pious scholar being laid to rest. Only “Allahu Akbar” and “Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Rajiun” that filled the air held me, but I could have fallen aground. Finally, Dr Ahmad was in his grave, closed and gone, forever. Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Rajiun.

Opinion

Ganduje’s Visit of Shame, By Adnan Mukhtar

Published

8 hours ago

April 12, 2025

Nigerian Tracker

The visit of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to former President Muhammadu Buhari has given the All Progressives Congress a sleepless night.

At a time when the party should focus on how to better the life of Nigerians as a result of the hardship since the inauguration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; the party has resorted to acting like an opposition.

It’s obviously clear that Atiku is setting a precedent for the party to follow. Even though he has told the world that his visit to the former President is a personal one, a post sallah visit as he told Nigerians on his Facebook Page; the former Vice President has reiterated his commitment to forming a formidable coalition that will defeat President Tinubu in 2027.

Shortly after Atiku’s visit, Ganduje rushed to the Kaduna residence of Muhammadu Buhari to visit him alongside some members of his National Working Committee.

When asked by journalists about his take on the Coalition; he replied, “We are not concerned about any coalition.”

If they are not concerned, then why the rush to visit Buhari after Atiku’s visit. It was the APC governors in the first place, as reported by some national dailies. The visit was to persuade Buhari to stop his people from joining the coalition.

Whatever, the upcoming coalition is for the good of this country, it is an effort to rescue the country in the hands of President Tinubu, who has inflicted hardship in all ramifications to Nigerians

There is kidnapping in the land, of recent bandits kidnapped a retired major General and former head of one of our critical national institutions NYSC, what confidence would it give our corps members.

The government is taking credit of his release, to this moment, the truth of the matter hasn’t prevailed. Was General Tsiga released after payment of ransome or rescued by security agencies?

Every well-meaning Nigerian should support the coalition, it’s is not about Atiku or El-rufai; it is about the future of Nigeria as a nation.

The APC as a party should call it’s son President Tinubu, to order so that he can do the needful to fix this country from the current mess, not following every footstep of Atiku.

Atiku is indeed a powerful opposition figure.

Atiku’s Visit to Binta Yar’adua

Shortly after his visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari, Atiku visited the wife of his lifetime mentor, General Shehu Musa Yaradua.

The visit symbolises Atiku’s loyalty to his mentor Shehu Yaradua even in death. I read in his autobiography how Shehu not only helped him but has later become his business partner. Shehu Yaradua was part of Intels, an investment where Atiku is a major shareholder.

It’s good to be loyal, Atiku is a loyalist of Shehu; a loyalty that should inspire the younger generation.

May our loyalty never be tasted!

Adnan is a university lecturer and a communication strategist

Opinion

2027:Why Fa’izu Alfindiki Is Municipal’s Best Choice For Reps

Published

3 days ago

April 10, 2025

Nigerian Tracker

From Danlami Gandun Albasa

There is no doubt that the former Chairman of Kano Municipal Hon Fa’izu Alfindiki (Jundullahi) can make a better candidate for the position of House of Representatives, in the forthcoming 2027. His name alone rings bell and sends fear to the ears and hearts of his political opponents. Kwankwasiyya especially and their hidden supporters.

It is very clear for all to come to term with me when I argue that Alfindiki is not only composed, but he has clear understanding of voters behavior in his constituency, Municipal local government and other Metropolitan areas.

I have my concrete reasons why Alfindiki stands better chance to be the candidate for House of Representatives seat from Kano Municipal, in 2027.

Let’s have a simple look at those reasons. See below for your perusal :

1. Apart from being the immediate past local government Chairman, whose understanding of grassroot politicians (yan dangwale) their needs and behaviors, become part and parcel of his political experience, his relationship with many categories of people gives him an edge over many others, who recently indicate their interest,

2. Alfindiki’s visibility in the social media, as both active user and active contributor in political discussions in the social media means a lot for his breakthrough,

3. Coming from Bakin Kasuwa side of the Municipal local government, will give headache for Kwankwasiyya or NNPP people. Who are densely populated there. So when Bakin Kasuwa politicians see their son contesting for the position, they will rally behind him for popular support and endorsement at all cost,

4. Fa’izu has no hidden relationship with Baba Ganduje’s enemies and political opponents. You cannot pinpoint any figure within Kwankwasiyya circle and get any link with him or her and Fa’izu Alfindiki. He is always straightforward,

5. Alfindiki has no history of abusing our pillars within APC or their families. He still believes, our pillars, ranging from Baba Ganduje, Abdullahi Abbas and the like, are still reliable and dependable. Nowhere in his political history, where he resorts to abusing the families of our leaders, at whatever rate and range,

6. Alfindiki is always up and doing in coordinating all parts of our great party APC to be strong and reliable political platform, and

7. Without any fear of contradiction, Alfindiki is responsible without pretending. He unifies supporters and does not believe in creating factions within the larger body of our great APC

TO BE CONTINUED

Opinion

Letter To IGP On Reaffirming Respect For Traditional Institutions And The Role Of The Nigeria Police Force In Upholding Justice

Published

3 days ago

April 10, 2025

Nigerian Tracker

Sir,

We acknowledge the Nigeria Police Force’s recent decision to withdraw its invitation to the Emir of Kano, Mallam Muhammadu Sanusi II PhD, in connection to an incident during the Sallah celebration in Kano on March 30, 2025. While this move is appreciated, it is important to highlight that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) is a noble institution revered for its commitment to maintaining law and order.

As such, we believe that the leadership of the NPF, particularly the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), should not be utilized as a tool for actions that could be construed as undermining this esteemed institution. The primary responsibility of the NPF is to maintain law and order in society, not to engage in actions that sow division or disrespect for the country’s revered institutions.

We wish to respectfully draw the attention of the IGP to certain issues that require immediate attention. First and foremost, addressing an Emir without the appropriate protocol is a sign of disdain, not only to the individual Emir but to the entire traditional institution. An Emir, whether alive,deposed, or deceased, should never be referred to without the prefix “Emir” or “His highnerss. Referring to the Emir as “Alhaji,” “Mallam,” or “Dr.” without the appropriate title raises concerns and may lead to suspicions regarding the position of the NPF toward the Emir, His Highness, Mallam Muhammadu Sanusi II PhD.

Additionally, we believe that the question of whether the NPF’s press release, demanding that the Emir provide a statement, was necessary is a matter of concern. The state police command had already made arrests and issued an invitation to Sallaman Kano, the most senior aide in charge of palace affairs

This action should suffice for the continuation of the investigation without the need to escalate matters by seeking the Emir’s direct involvement. Further engagement with the Emir, if necessary, can be carried out through appropriate channels, in line with the traditional and legal protocols.

While we appreciate the IGP’s prompt action in withdrawing the invitation, we would like to emphasize the importance of maintaining respect for the traditional institution and ensuring that police actions do not inadvertently politicize or disrespect any parties involved. We trust that the IGP will take this into account as the investigation progresses and that professionalism, neutrality, and justice will guide the NPF in handling this delicate matter.

In conclusion, we hope that the NPF continues to uphold its role in a manner that respects the traditions and laws of our nation. It is essential that such matters be handled with the utmost care, respecting both the rule of law and the sanctity of the traditional institutions.

Tijjani Sarki
Vice President
Human Rights Watch and youth empowerment foundation, Kano, Nigeria
7th April 2025