From: Daure David
In recent remarks by Haj Naja'atu Mohammed, a staunch critic of the political dynamics in Northern Nigeria, the former Minister’s comment regarding the legacy of General TY Danjuma has sparked considerable debate. Naja'atu, known for her outspokenness on national issues, brought up the historical roles of prominent figures in Nigerian politics, especially Danjuma’s actions after the assassination of the Sardauna of Sokoto.
She praised Danjuma’s decisive actions at a critical moment, including arresting those responsible for Sardauna's death and threatening to bomb a building unless those perpetrators were brought to justice. She emphasized that Danjuma’s courage and patriotism during those turbulent times should not be overlooked.
However, Naja'atu sharply criticized the current political landscape in the north, particularly the actions of Hausa-Fulani politicians, accusing them of undermining the Middle Belt’s interests. She pointed out that while Danjuma has shown significant support for Arewa (the northern region), contributing vast sums of money to its institutions, the same support for his own Middle Belt region is unclear. She also mentioned how some elements within Arewa campaigned for Danjuma to run for president, given his influence and resources.
Yet, Naja'atu’s comments went further, criticizing what she saw as the growing religious divide in Nigeria, particularly within the northern region. According to her, the divisive nature of political and religious leaders in the North, especially among Arewa Muslims, has been detrimental to the unity of Nigeria. She accused the northern political elite of capitalizing on this division to secure resources and deny others a fair opportunity at leadership and development.
Drawing attention to the rise of Sharia in the North, Naja'atu pointed out the dangerous trajectory of the region’s religious politics, which has led to violence, including the emergence of Boko Haram. She argued that the desire to Islamize Nigeria has worsened sectarian tensions and that it is contributing to a breakdown in national unity.
Critics of Naja'atu’s position, however, suggest that the situation is more complex than she portrays. While the northern elite’s political influence has undeniably played a significant role in shaping the country’s leadership, many argue that the challenges faced by the Middle Belt and other minorities cannot solely be attributed to a religious divide. Instead, they call for a more nuanced view of Nigeria’s political and religious landscape, where all groups have a chance to coexist and prosper.
In the midst of these tensions, one thing is clear: Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious makeup, once considered a strength, has become a source of division. Whether this division can be healed or will continue to deepen depends largely on how the political and religious leaders address the growing mistrust between the country’s Christian and Muslim populations. What is certain is that the need for unity, understanding, and justice has never been more urgent.
As the nation continues to navigate these complex issues, it remains to be seen whether figures like TY Danjuma, with their deep connections and history in Nigerian politics, can bridge these divides or if the political and religious elite will continue to exploit them for their own benefit.
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