Imam Ibrahim Aliyu Kaduna, Assistant Secretary of the Council of Ulama of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), FCT, has expressed his disagreement with the late Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka’s religious ideology. Masussuka’s ideology is based on the belief that the Qur’an is the sole authority for religious worship, without incorporating the Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad. Imam Aliyu Kaduna argues that this belief contradicts the Qur’an itself, citing a verse that entrusts the Messenger of Allah with explaining the Qur’an to the people.
Imam Aliyu Kaduna explains that the science of Hadith is a specialised and important field in Islam, which Masussuka’s followers have failed to appreciate. He notes that it is impossible to practise Islam fully without incorporating the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah. For example, the Qur’an commands Muslims to perform Tawaf around the Ka’abah, but the number of rounds and specific details are explained through the Hadith. Imam Aliyu Kaduna argues that Masussuka’s teachings present Islam in a manner different from what it actually represents.
Imam Aliyu Kaduna believes that Masussuka’s teachings originated from Muhammadu Marwa Maitatsine, who introduced a similar ideology in Africa. Masussuka acknowledged that he was a disciple of Maitatsine, while his parents were also said to have been Maitatsine’s followers. This suggests a chain of ideological influence that began with Marwa Maitatsine and continued through successive followers until it reached the present generation.
Imam Aliyu Kaduna considers Masussuka’s teachings fundamentally flawed and an attempt to undermine the established teachings of earlier Muslim scholars. He questions why Masussuka’s followers are calling for his lectures to be compiled and preserved, while Prophet Muhammad’s teachings have already been compiled and preserved. Imam Aliyu Kaduna sees this as a contradiction and an attempt to undermine Islamic foundations.
Imam Aliyu Kaduna has strongly condemned the killing of Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka, describing it as deeply saddening. He emphasises that no Islamic preacher would be happy to hear that another person has been killed simply because his religious teachings or beliefs differ from theirs. JIBWIS and Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah promote dialogue and constructive engagement aimed at establishing the truth, rather than eliminating those with differing views.
The killing of Masussuka has raised concerns about religious tolerance and security in the country. Imam Aliyu Kaduna stresses that JIBWIS and Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah do not support the killing of anyone, whether a Muslim or a non-Muslim, simply because of differences in religious beliefs. He calls for a return to the philosophy of the Izala movement, which emphasises dialogue and constructive engagement.
The incident has sparked a renewed debate about the need for greater understanding and tolerance among different Islamic sects and groups. Imam Aliyu Kaduna’s comments reflect the concerns of many Muslims who are worried about the growing trend of violence and intolerance in the country. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting peaceful coexistence and respect for differing views.
Key points
- JIBWIS Imam Ibrahim Aliyu Kaduna rejects Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka’s ideology while condemning his killing.
- Masussuka’s ideology is based on the belief that the Qur’an is the sole authority for religious worship, without incorporating the Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad.
- The killing of Masussuka has raised concerns about religious tolerance and security in the country.
