Friday Sermon: Senator Shehu Buba Umar: A mediator (Muslih), not a sponsor of terrorism!, By Murtadha Gusau

In the Name of Allah, the Most-Merciful, the Ever-Merciful

All praise is due to Allah, Lord of all creation, and may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and all his Companions.

Dear brothers and sisters! Know that, Senator Shehu Buba Umar’s exact role regarding armed bandits is currently a subject of intense national debate, involving official state accusations, security agency mediation context, and strong denials from the lawmaker. While his defenders and past activities suggest he has acted in a non-kinetic, dialogue-driven capacity, recent formal petitions have alleged a deeper and more illicit connection.

The complex situation surrounding the distinguished lawmaker involves several distinct perspectives. The Bauchi State Government sent a formal petition to President Bola Tinubu accusing Senator Shehu Buba Umar, who serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, of being associated with banditry.

Separate allegations from groups like the Arewa Youth Movement (AYM) and various viral videos have accused him of:

1. Sponsoring the logistics of bandits (such as motorcycles).

2. Facilitating medical treatment for wounded fighters.

3. Having links to high-profile wanted bandit kingpins like Bello Turji.

4. Registering individuals linked to banditry for the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

Supporters and investigative reports indicate that Senator Shehu Buba Umar’s involvement with these groups stems from security strategy rather than complicity.

Prior to his time in the Senate, he was part of a Federal Government delegation tasked with engaging in peace negotiations with armed bandits.

Reports from intelligence circles, such as an analysis by The Cable, indicate he holds deep academic and practical knowledge of banditry, possesses extensive contacts within the affected forests, and has long been utilised as a counter-insurgency asset by Nigerian security agencies.

Senator Shehu Buba Umar holds a Master’s degree in Peace Studies and Conflict Management, with his doctoral research specifically focusing on banditry in Zamfara and Kaduna states.

Already, Senator Shehu Buba Umar has strongly refuted all allegations of banditry sponsorship, labeling them as fabricated, malicious, and politically motivated smear campaigns orchestrated by his detractors ahead of future elections. He maintains that his approach has consistently championed community-led peace initiatives and official non-kinetic solutions to address insecurity in Northern Nigeria. Addressing specific claims, he clarified that he sponsors many individuals for Hajj based on community recommendations and has no personal ties to suspects arrested during those screenings.

Respected brothers and sisters! In our great religion, Islam, acting as a mediator (Muslih) between warring factions is considered a highly virtuous, noble, and mandatory duty when conflict arises. The noble Qur’an, the Sunnah, and Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) strongly emphasise making peace over allowing conflict to continue.

The noble Qur’an explicitly commands Muslim believers to intervene and make peace between conflicting groups. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah the Most High says:

“And if two factions among the Muslim believers should fight, then make settlement between the two…” [Qur’an, 49:9]

The very next Qur’anic verse states:

“The Muslim believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers and fear Allah that you may receive mercy.” [Qur’an, 49:10]

And meeting privately and secretly to mend relations is highly praised in Islam. Allah the Almighty says:

“No good is there in much of their private conversation, except for those who enjoin charity or that which is right or conciliation between people…” [Qur’an, 4:114]

And our beloved leader and Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) repeatedly acted as a mediator (Muslih) and encouraged his followers to do the same. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) once asked his companions:

“Shall I not inform you of something more excellent than the degree of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving?” They said, “Yes.” He replied, “Coupling, reconciling matters of disagreement…” [Sunan Abi Dawud]

We know, Islam generally strictly forbids lying. However, the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) made an exception for mediation to prevent bloodshed, stating that a person is not a liar if they convey good reports or say good things to bring peace between people.

If you take on the role of a mediator (Muslih), Islamic jurisprudence highlights several strict guidelines you must follow: A mediator must remain completely impartial. They cannot favour one side due to wealth, status, or kinship. The Qur’an states that if one party refuses peace and transgresses, the Ummah must stop the aggressor, but once they comply, peace must be made “with justice and act justly.” [Qur’an, 49:9]

Also the intention behind the mediation must purely be to please Allah and save lives, not to gain personal fame, political leverage, or financial reward. Also a mediator must protect the secrets of both sides. Exposing private vulnerabilities discussed during negotiations can destroy trust and worsen the conflict.

Again, you know, resolving deep-seated conflicts takes time. A mediator must endure harsh words or setbacks without giving up.

Dear brothers and sisters! Mediation is an essential tool for conflict resolution, and Islam strongly encourages peaceful reconciliation between individuals, families, and communities. Whether resolving disputes between spouses, family members, or even nations, mediation (Sulh) is a noble act rooted in justice, wisdom, and compassion.

And remember, the goal of mediation is not to “win” an argument but to restore peace, mend relationships, and uphold justice. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) was known for his wisdom in settling disputes, always prioritising fairness and kindness.

Also Islam provides a clear framework for mediation in family matters, especially in marriage disputes. If conflict arises, Allah the Most High advises appointing neutral mediators. He the Most High says:

“If you fear a breach between them, appoint an arbitrator from his family and an arbitrator from her family. If they both desire reconciliation, Allah will cause it between them.” [Qur’an, 4:35]

As said earlier, the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) himself acted as a mediator in various family conflicts, always advocating for patience, understanding, and mutual respect.

The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) also said:

“The best charity is to reconcile between people.” [Musnad of Imam Ahmad]

Mediation is not just a social duty; it is an act of worship (Ibadah) that brings immense reward. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said:

“Shall I not tell you something more excellent in degree than fasting, prayer, and charity?” They said, “Yes, O Messenger of Allah.” He said, “Reconciling people, for conflict and hatred sever the ties of faith.” [Abu Dawud]

This Prophetic Hadith highlights that resolving conflicts strengthens faith and unity within the Ummah.

In a country, in a world filled with misunderstandings and conflicts, mediation offers a powerful solution. Whether in personal disputes, family matters, or community tensions, following the principles of Islamic mediation can restore harmony and strengthen relationships.

Respected servants of Allah! Know that, the history of international mediation dates back over 4,500 years, evolving from ancient boundary arbitrations by tribal elders into a highly formalised branch of modern global diplomacy. The earliest recorded case of a third-party mediator dates to 2550 BCE, when King Mesilim of Kish brokered a land and water dispute between the warring Mesopotamian city-states of Lagash and Umma.

Throughout history, neutral states, religious leaders, prominent statesmen, and international bodies like the United Nations have acted as third-party mediators to bring warring factions to reconciliation.

Mediation, as a form of conflict resolution, has a rich and varied history. Its roots extend deep into ancient civilisations, evolving through time to become a structured, professional practice utilised globally today.

Mediation, in its most rudimentary form, can be traced back to ancient civilisations. In these early societies, community leaders or elders often acted as mediators to resolve disputes among members. This informal process was grounded in the need for communal harmony and social stability.

For example, in ancient China, mediation was a common practice. Confucian philosophy, which emphasised harmony and the resolution of disputes through negotiation, greatly influenced Chinese mediation practices. Mediators, often respected community leaders, played a crucial role in maintaining social order.

The Greeks and Romans also practiced forms of mediation. In ancient Greece, the concept of ‘proxenoi’ involved individuals who mediated disputes between city-states. Similarly, in Rome, ‘arbiter’ and ‘conciliator’ were roles akin to modern mediators, facilitating negotiations and settlements in both private and public matters.

During the medieval period, mediation evolved within different cultural and legal contexts. The Catholic Church played a significant role in Europe, where bishops and clergy mediated disputes based on canon law principles.

In the Islamic world, mediation (sulh) was a well-established practice. The Qur’an and Hadith encouraged mediation as a means to resolve conflicts peacefully. Islamic mediators, known as ‘hakam,’ were respected figures who facilitated dialogue and reconciliation.

Indigenous cultures around the world have long-standing traditions of mediation. For instance, Native American tribes often relied on elders or designated peacemakers to mediate disputes within the community. These practices were deeply rooted in the values of respect, community cohesion, and restorative justice.

The modern era saw the formalisation and institutionalisation of mediation. The 20th century, in particular, marked significant advancements in the field, driven by the need for efficient and less adversarial dispute resolution mechanisms.

In the United States, the labour movement in the early 20th century spurred the development of mediation. The establishment of the United States Conciliation Service in 1913 aimed to resolve labour disputes through mediation rather than strikes. The Civil Rights Movement further advanced mediation, with community-based programs addressing racial tensions and promoting social justice.

Internationally, the aftermath of World War II, recent Taliban-American war, recent Iran-Israel-American conflicts underscored the necessity of mediation in maintaining global peace. The United Nations established the role of international mediators to address conflicts between nations. Figures like Ralph Bunche and Dag Hammarskjöld were instrumental in pioneering these efforts.

Today, mediation is a well-established practice across various sectors, including family law, commercial disputes, and international conflicts. Professional organisations, such as the American Bar Association (ABA) and the International Mediation Institute (IMI), set standards and provide training for mediators worldwide.

The advent of technology has also transformed mediation. Online dispute resolution (ODR) platforms enable mediators to facilitate negotiations across geographical boundaries, making mediation more accessible and efficient.

Dear brothers and sisters! The history of mediation is a testament to humanity’s enduring quest for peaceful conflict resolution. From ancient community practices to sophisticated modern techniques, mediation has evolved to meet the changing needs of societies. As the world continues to grapple with complex disputes, the principles and practices of mediation remain as relevant and vital as ever.

Fellow Nigerians! Senator Shehu Buba Umar was born in Nabordo Village, Toro Local Government Area, Bauchi State, on October 2, 1976. He had his primary education at Newo-Foron in Barkin Ladi LGA in Plateau and went on to Government Day Secondary School in Bauchi, before proceeding to Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, Kaduna State, where he studied Adult Education.

For his postgraduate studies, he earned a Master’s degree from the University of Jos, where he studied Conflict, Peace and Resolution Management.

Senator Shehu Buba Umar’s venture into the professional world started with him holding a role as a local primary school teacher in Bauchi before he was appointed as Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Nomadic Education to Isa Yuguda, a former governor of the state.

He was connected to the former governor as his sister was married to Abdullahi Yuguda, a relative of the former governor.

Three years after his appointment, he became instrumental in the campaign publicity of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the Waziri of Adamawa, and former vice president of Nigeria.

In 2019, Governor Bala Mohammed appointed him as the Caretaker Chairman of Toro LGA. Three years later, in 2022, he won the Bauchi South Senatorial election, defeating Lawal Yahaya Gumau, the incumbent lawmaker.

One month before Governor Bala Muhammed’s letter of accusation was sent to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Bauchi Emirate Council stripped Senator Shehu Buba Umar of his traditional title of ‘Majidadin Bauchi.’

The withdrawal of this chieftaincy title was hinged on reported disrespect and humiliation for the state governor, which are against the teachings and culture of Bauchi Emirate.

However, Senator Shehu Buba Umar responded that the governor had attacked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his remarks during the 2024 EndBadGovernance protests. He said that the governor’s statements were confrontational, accusatory and abusive.

Senator Shehu Buba Umar has moved across political parties and is now seeking to be the governor of Bauchi State under the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), after losing the primary elections under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

My beloved people! Know that, till today, wallahi, no court or official intelligence report has proven that Senator Shehu Buba Umar is a sponsor of banditry or terrorism.

While Senator Shehu Buba Umar has been engulfed in a major national controversy involving serious allegations, these claims currently remain unsubstantiated accusations arising primarily from an ongoing local political rivalry.

And the Fact-checks from independent media platforms, such as Premium Times, clarify that while the federal government and the Department of State Services (DSS) have investigated security leads involving suspects arrested at Hajj operations, no formal findings or criminal indictments have linked Senator Shehu Buba Umar directly to terrorism or banditry sponsorship. Civil society groups and local transparency organisations have urged the public to separate verified facts from political warfare.

Now anyone still believing the ongoing media propaganda linking Senator Shehu Buba Umar, representing Bauchi South at the Red Chamber, to the sponsorship of bandits and banditry in Nigeria is either a victim of deliberate misinformation or has chosen to become a willing instrument of a calculated campaign of calumny.

Let’s fear Allah, Senator Shehu Buba Umar should not be made a victim of political blackmail. As a civilian, he has consistently worked to support security efforts against banditry and terrorism, and deserves fair and objective assessment.

Political differences are legitimate, but deliberately vilifying a man who has contributed to the fight against insecurity for cheap political advantage is both unfair and irresponsible. If you cannot commend his efforts, at least do not distort them for political gain.

May Allah the Almighty continue to protect us, and guide us to be peacemakers in our families and our communities, ameen.

All praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds. May the peace, blessings and salutations of Allah be upon our noble Messenger, Muhammad, and upon his family, his Companions and his true followers.

Murtadha Muhammad Gusau is the Chief Imam of Nagazi-Uvete Jumu’ah and the late Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Okene’s Mosques, Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria. He can be reached via: [email protected] or +2348038289761 or +2348024192217.

This Jumu’ah Khutbah (Friday sermon) was prepared for delivery today, Friday, Rabi’ul Thani 06, 1448 AH (September 18, 2026).