An open letter To His Eminence Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II,
The Grand khalifa of Tijaniyya in Nigeria,
The Emir of Kano,
Kano State, Nigeria.
Addressing the Negligence and Discrimination Against the Tijaniyya Community in Nigeria.
By: Hamza Umar
Dear Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II,
I write to you with a heavy heart and a sense of urgency on behalf of the Tijaniyya community in Nigeria, which has faced neglect and discrimination that undermines the very essence of our national unity and religious freedom.
The Plight of the Tijaniyya Community:
The Tijaniyya Sufi order, known for its profound spiritual contributions and peaceful practices, has been increasingly marginalized in various aspects of Nigerian life, particularly in education and social integration.
Neglect in Educational Opportunities: Tijaniyya students often encounter barriers to higher education, including discriminatory practices in admission policies, scholarship allocations, and campus religious freedoms, particularly in institutions where the concept of "indigeneity" plays a role.
Social Discrimination: There is a palpable sense of exclusion where Tijaniyya followers are sometimes sidelined in community activities, political representation, and even in the workplace, fostering an environment of distrust and division.
Cultural and Religious Intolerance: The rich cultural and spiritual practices of the Tijaniyya are sometimes met with misunderstanding and prejudice, leading to an atmosphere where these practices are not celebrated but rather suppressed.
A Call to Action:
Your leadership is pivotal in catalyzing change and fostering an environment of inclusivity, respect, and equality. Here are specific actions we earnestly request:
Platform for Unity:
We call upon you to spearhead the creation of a national platform or council that specifically addresses the integration, including the Tijaniyya, into the mainstream socio-political fabric of Nigeria.
The platform could facilitate dialogue, promote understanding, and work towards communal harmony.
Educational Programs and Opportunities:
Advocate for the establishment of educational programs that highlight the contributions of Tijaniyya to Nigerian culture and religion.
This should include:
Scholarships: Designated scholarships for Tijaniyya students to ensure equal educational opportunities, recognizing their academic merit and spiritual commitment.
Inclusive Policies: Push for policy reforms in universities and polytechnics to eliminate discriminatory practices and to ensure that religious practices like the Wazifa are respected.
Community Outreach and Leadership:
Encourage community leaders, both religious and secular, to actively engage with Tijaniyya communities, promoting their inclusion in local governance, community projects, and leadership roles. This outreach can help dismantle stereotypes and foster mutual respect.
Cultural Celebrations and Education:
Support initiatives that celebrate Tijaniyya cultural and religious events publicly, educating the wider community about the beauty and depth of Tijaniyya practices, thereby fostering a culture of tolerance and appreciation.
Conclusion:
The time for action is now. Under your guidance, we can transform the narrative from one of neglect and discrimination to one of unity, opportunity, and shared prosperity. We believe that with your influence, Nigeria can become a beacon of religious freedom and cultural diversity, where every citizen, regardless of their spiritual path, feels valued and included.
We respectfully urge you to take these matters to heart, to leverage your position to mend the social fabric, and to ensure that the Tijaniyya community is no longer sidelined but rather celebrated as an integral part of our nation's rich tapestry.
With profound respect and anticipation for your leadership,
[Hamza Umar]
08102628658
Mon, Feb 10