In his ‘Sunday Sermon’, former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, wrote: “A leader should avoid authoritarian rule, as tyranny leads to societal discontent and instability.”
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| Nasir El-Rufai |
According to Nasir El-Rufai: “SUNDAY SERMON: The book “Ten Principles of Politics” by Sultan Muhammadu Bello of Sokoto is a significant work in Islamic political thought.
Sultan Muhammad Bello, the son of Sheikh Uthmanu Bin Fodio, provides a guide on governance based on Islamic principles.
Below is a summary of its core ideas:
1. Justice: The foundation of governance is justice. Leaders must ensure fairness and impartiality in dealing with their subjects, regardless of their status.
2. Consultation (Shura): A ruler should consult knowledgeable and trustworthy advisors before making decisions to ensure sound governance.*
3. Accountability: Leaders are accountable to Allah and the people they govern. They must be transparent and answerable for their actions.*
4. Good Leadership: A leader must exhibit exemplary moral character, wisdom, and humility, serving as a role model for society.
5. Provision of Welfare: The government should prioritize the well-being of its citizens, ensuring access to basic needs like security, food, and healthcare.
6. Rule of Law: A leader must adhere to the laws of Islam and ensure their enforcement without favouritism or oppression.
7. Knowledge and Education: Leaders should promote the pursuit of knowledge and education as a means to empower society and maintain good governance.
8. Avoiding Tyranny: A leader should avoid authoritarian rule, as tyranny leads to societal discontent and instability.
9. Military Preparedness: The state must be prepared to defend itself and its people, ensuring peace and security.
10. Trust and Loyalty: Leadership is a trust (Amanah) from Allah, and leaders must remain loyal to this trust, avoiding corruption and betrayal.
The book emphasizes that leadership is a divine responsibility that must be fulfilled with sincerity, integrity, and adherence to Islamic values.
Sultan Muhammadu Bello’s work remains relevant, especially in discussing ethical governance and leadership in a multicultural society like Nigeria.”
