We must reject false narratives on Danfodiyo’s jihad – Sheikh Mafara

Delivering a historical account, Dr. Aminu Musa Yabo described Sheikh Maituta as the first Saa’i—an official responsible for collecting and distributing Zakat—and custodian of the Baitul-Mal (public treasury) during the leadership of Sheikh Usman Danfodiyo. He noted that Maituta also served as a flagbearer during the jihad and continued in his roles until his martyrdom in battle against colonial forces.

Dr. Yabo further highlighted that Maituta, a respected jurist, married Danfodiyo’s daughter, Khadija, with whom he had eight children. Among his notable descendants are former Sokoto State Deputy Governor Manir Daniya; current Saa’in Kilgori and senior counsellor in the Sultanate Council, Dr. Muhammadu Jabbi Kilgori; and retired Customs Controller, Alhaji Garba Muhammad Kilgori.

Representing the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Waziri of Sokoto commended the Maituta Foundation for organizing the event and urged the family to preserve their forebears’ legacy while fostering unity.

Similarly, Governor Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State, represented by his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Aminu Dikko, encouraged the descendants to emulate Sheikh Maituta’s dedication to knowledge and public service.

“Their generation valued education and rejected idleness. I urge you to seek knowledge, engage in productive enterprise, and contribute positively to the development of your communities,” the governor said.