BTS 33
1986. 172 pp. german text, 5 pp. english text.
This study investigates the ethnic aspect of the Sokoto capital (Nigeria) through the first period of consolidation in the light of the career of Abd as-Salam.
Abd as-Salam was a learned Haussaman who was at one time loyal follower of Utman dan Fodio. Fodio had established the Sokoto caliphate by revolting against the Haussa States. He then turned against his son and successor Muhammad Bello.
The first part of the study describes the successful rebellion of Utman dan Fodio and the role of the Fulani people. The chief source of information about Abd as- Salam is a report written by Bello entitled Sard al Kalam Fima Gara Bainana Wa-Baina Abd as-Salam, which consists of the correspondence between the two and which is presented here.
The book ends with Bello’s narration of as-Salam’s career, his rebellion and eventual death. This study reveals that Muhammad Bello crushed the revolt at a heavy price- the alienation of large segments of the Haussa population, which brought with it a series of revolts that plagued the Sokoto Caliphate.
Prof. Rainer Osswald is Professor at the Institute for Islamic Studies for Africa at the University Bayreuth. His research interests focus on Islamic Law, slavery and the history of Islam in West Africa.