By Aliyu Dahiru
Religion is a powerful tool for bringing people together and promoting unity, but unfortunately, it can also be used to spread division and incite violence. This is the case with Sheikh Saidu Maikwano Gusau, a radical cleric who is spreading hateful messages and endangering Nigeria’s Muslim community.
Maikwano has gained notoriety for his divisive views towards other Muslims, even among fellow Salafis who hold different beliefs. He has declared himself the arbiter of who is a Muslim and who is not, and has a history of attacking other Salafi figures in his numerous videos uploaded on Youtube.
In a recent sermon, Maikwano called for the execution of Sufi-Muslims who do not share his beliefs. He hide behind law to spread hate and inflamatory speech against others. This type of inflammatory speech is unacceptable, especially when it targets the Sufis, a significant portion of Nigeria’s Muslim population. The rhetoric has the potential to incite violence and harm innocent people based solely on their beliefs.
In a recent statement published by one of the Nigerian media platforms, a group has already urged Nigerian government to act on Maikwano before his speeches lead to a disastrous outcome. This has shown how his speeches have already started raising tensions within then Muslims in Nigeria.
Religious leaders must actively promote unity, respect, and peaceful coexistence. The government must act quickly to prevent another religious insurgency in Nigeria, which has already manifested in Boko Haram.
Maikwano’s dangerous ideology, known as Madkhalism, is a threat to Nigeria’s peace and stability. Its polarizing teachings have led to sectarian division and have normalised prejudice. Madkhalism is not limited to Nigeria, as it has been linked to increased sectarian hostility in other countries, such as Saudi Arabia.
Maikwano’s use of his position of authority and influence to spread hate speech and declare other Muslims non-believers (or “Kafirs”) is a violation of the core beliefs of Islam, which stress compassion, unity, and respect for all. This kind of rhetoric creates a toxic and hostile environment that divides communities and undermines social cohesion.
Religious authorities must promote respect, tolerance, and understanding of people who practice their religion differently. The government must ensure that everyone is free to practice their religion without fear of retaliation or violence.
In conclusion, Maikwano and those like him who use religion to spread hate pose a threat to society and the Muslim community. We must stand against extremists and promote an Islam that is rooted in love, peace, tolerance, and inclusiveness. By doing so, we honour our faith’s teachings and work towards a better world for all.
