"For God’s sake, if we, the followers of the Tijjaniyya brotherhood, say we will not live in peace, is there anyone who will live in peace in this country? But everyone knows we are people who love peace," Sheikh Bauchi declared, emphasizing the order’s historical role in promoting harmony. He stressed that members have endured significant hardships for the sake of stability, and their current demands are simply for the opportunity to perform religious duties, such as Wazifa (a form of devotional recitation) and other acts of worship, without interference. The Sheikh’s address resonated with many followers who have long felt marginalized in academic settings, where religious activities are sometimes regulated or restricted.
Sheikh Bauchi specifically condemned the harassment of Tijjaniyya members in Nigerian schools, citing instances where they are prevented from engaging in Zikr and other traditional practices central to the Tijjaniyya path. He described these actions as not only discriminatory but also detrimental to the spiritual well-being of students and staff who belong to the brotherhood. The issue, he argued, goes beyond mere access to facilities; it touches on fundamental rights to religious freedom and expression enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution. By denying Tijjaniyya followers dedicated spaces, universities risk fostering an environment of exclusion that could undermine social cohesion.
The controversy gained renewed attention following the resignation of the Chief Imam of Tafawa Balewa University, who stepped down after Tijjaniyya members were granted land within the institution to build a mosque. Sheikh Bauchi lamented this development, viewing it as a symptom of deeper tensions between different Islamic groups in Nigeria. He urged university administrators to handle such matters with sensitivity, ensuring that all Muslim communities are treated equitably. The allocation of worship spaces, he noted, should be based on principles of fairness and inclusivity, rather than sectarian preferences or pressures.
He assured if members are not allowed to freely practice their faith in universities, they will take legal action. Emphasizing the need for space to build their places of worship on campuses. He explained that if they face unfair treatment, they will first complain to the responsible officials. If that does not work, they will go to court to protect their rights, citing the constitutional right to religious freedom.
The Tijjaniyya order, one of the largest Sufi brotherhoods in West Africa, has millions of followers in Nigeria, known for their emphasis on spirituality, peace, and community service. Despite their significant presence, they have occasionally faced challenges in asserting their identity within broader Islamic landscapes, where Salafi or other reformist movements sometimes dominate discourse. In recent years, conflicts over prayer grounds and religious activities have erupted on several campuses, reflecting wider societal debates about pluralism and tolerance. Sheikh Bauchi’s appeal thus taps into a longstanding struggle for recognition and respect among Sufi orders in the country.
Responses to the Sheikh’s statements have been mixed. Some student groups and civil society organizations have voiced support, calling for policies that protect religious diversity in educational institutions. Others, however, caution that allocating separate spaces for every religious subgroup could lead to fragmentation and administrative burdens. University officials, speaking anonymously, acknowledge the need for dialogue but point to limited resources and the complexity of balancing competing demands. The federal government has yet to issue a formal response, though past administrations have generally advocated for peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse religious communities.
As the debate continues, Sheikh Bauchi remains hopeful that a resolution can be reached through constructive engagement. He reiterated the Tijjaniyya brotherhood’s dedication to non-violence and cooperation, urging all parties to prioritize the common good. "We are not asking for special treatment," he said, "only for the chance to worship in peace, as our faith requires." With Nigeria grappling with security challenges and social divisions, the outcome of this issue may serve as a test of the nation’s commitment to upholding religious liberties for all its citizens, regardless of their spiritual traditions.
In conclusion, the call for worship spaces in universities highlights broader questions about inclusion and equity in Nigeria’s pluralistic society. As Tijjaniyya followers seek to practice their faith freely, the response from authorities will likely influence interfaith relations on campuses and beyond. For now, Sheikh Ibrahim Dahiru Bauchi’s words echo a simple yet powerful message: peace and justice are inseparable, and true harmony can only be achieved when every community feels valued and respected.
