Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has described the legacy of Sheikh Abubakar Mahmud Gumi as a guiding compass for peace and unity in Kaduna, stressing that his spirit of dialogue and inclusivity offers enduring lessons for Nigeria’s diversity.
Speaking as Special Guest of Honour and Chief Host at the presentation and review of Sheikh Gumi’s timeless book “Where I Stand”, newly translated into Arabic by Dr. Ibrahim Jalo Jalingo, the Governor said the cleric’s unwavering commitment to interfaith understanding continues to inspire efforts at building harmony in Kaduna and beyond.
Governor Sani also conveyed the goodwill message of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who commended the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) for its immense contributions to moral guidance and education. The President noted that the book represents a timely tool for Nigeria’s moral regeneration.
The Governor eulogized Dr. Ibrahim Jalo Jalingo for globalizing Sheikh Gumi’s intellectual contributions through the Arabic translation, thereby advancing the cause of knowledge and spiritual renewal. He underscored that Islam has always placed emphasis on learning, scholarship, and preservation of knowledge — from the Qur’an and Hadith to the intellectual traditions of Muslim scholars across disciplines.
He further described works like “Where I Stand” as a form of Sadaqah jariyah (perpetual charity), continuing to inspire long after the author’s passing. Linking this to governance, he noted that his administration has continued to prioritize education and vocational training as tools for empowering citizens and deepening moral development.
Reflecting on Sheikh Gumi’s enduring legacy, Governor Sani hailed him as a moral authority, courageous voice of the voiceless, and an advocate for justice and peaceful coexistence. He said Kaduna State, with its rich diversity, still draws lessons from Gumi’s commitment to equity and dialogue.
The Governor reaffirmed that his administration remains firmly committed to fairness, tolerance, and inclusivity, inspired by the Prophet Muhammad’s Charter of Madina. He stressed that by championing justice and dialogue, Kaduna State will continue to strengthen peace, unity, and progress, serving as a model for the rest of Nigeria.
