Masussuka, Katsina State Government and the rule of law, by Abdullahi Adam Usman
Abdullahi Adam Usman
The Katsina State Government has announced its decision to summon Masussuka before a panel of ulama to defend himself against complaints it received, alleging that his teachings are in contravention to Islamic law, and that all efforts to resolve the issue at the grassroots level have failed.
The Government also acknowledged a complaint made by Masussuka himself against JIBWIS for insults and threats to his life.
However, from the letter, it appears that the threat to Masussuka’s life is not considered worth the ink.
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The Katsina State Government is dribbling itself toward the same mistake made by the Kano State Government during Ganduje’s reign, when sectarian rivalries were politicised and the state meddled excessively in religious disputes, culminating in the arrest and prosecution of Abduljabbar Nasiru Kabara after he appeared before a panel set up by the state government. It appears that the same individuals who played key roles in influencing Ganduje at the time are now the ones misleading Katsina State toward this disastrous path.
Masussuka is preaching from his studio. Whoever holds a different opinion from him should also air their views. Katsina State operates a Shari’a system, and the Shari’a courts exist for a reason. If Masussuka’s preaching has contravened any Islamic law—as alleged—any concerned individual should sue him before a court of law. That is the rule of law and the essence of separation of powers.
The State Government has many urgent matters to attend to, and sectarian rivalries should be the least of the burdens it imposes on itself.
Kano State is still battling the disastrous consequences of its past. Every group or sect is now reporting one another to the government. Imagine the government dealing with petitions from conflicting sects on a daily basis.
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This is not normal no one would dare attempt such madness through a court of law at least in a court, every negligent party bears the cost of its actions.
Finally, we await the position of the State Government on Masussuka’s complaint regarding threats to his life, and equally, when JIBWIS will be summoned to defend themselves against the allegations made by Masussuka.
This is not an exoneration of Abduljabbar or Masussuka, but a personal opinion on the purpose of law and how it ought to operate, and does not reflect anyone’s view unless otherwise adopted.
Abdullahi is a Student of International Studies and can be reached via abdallahnangere@gmail.com
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