RELEVANCE OF QADIRIYYA SUFISM IN THE JIHAD AND ITS MODERATIVE EFFECT ON THE LEADERSHIP OF THE SOKOTO CALIPHATE

Abstract

Sokoto caliphate, established by Shaykh Uthman, was one of the few caliphates established by Sufi leaders, and by far one of the most organized and governed caliphate. Many factors helped in the establishment of the caliphate. The most important among these factors were discontent among the common people, Islamic spirit and consciousness in the leaders and sufi-Qadiriyyah solidarity. This paper intends to examine the last factor and bring out its role in the success of the Jihad that culminated into a durable caliphate that was unique in history. Also to be examined is the role played by the order in particular and sufism in general in shaping the qualities of leadership in the Sokoto Jihad leaders. However, as a prelude, the shift of Sufism from its passive political participation to active role in local political struggle in North Africa will be discussed. This will pave way for the clear understanding of the roles played by Qadiriyyah Sufism in the execution of the Jihad and governance of the Caliphate