Sheikh Muhammad Auwal Adam, popularly known as Albani Zaria

 

Sheikh Muhammad Auwal Adam, popularly known as Albani Zaria, was a distinguished Nigerian Islamic scholar, educator, and proponent of the Salafi movement. Born on September 27, 1960, in Muchia Sabon Gari, Zaria, Kaduna State, he hailed from a Kano State lineage. His father, Alhaji Adamu Musa, and mother, Hajia Saudatu, played significant roles in his early life.

Educational Journey

Albani Zaria's educational path was diverse and extensive: 

• Primary and Secondary Education: He began at a missionary school in Sabon Gari, Zaria, and continued at Government Commercial Secondary School, Barewa College, and Demonstration Secondary School, all in Zaria.

• Diplomas:

  • Diploma in Shari’a Law (Distinction) from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria (1992-1994).
  • Diploma in Hausa Language from Bayero University, Kano (BUK).
  • Diploma in Mass Communication from the University of Jos.

• Bachelor's Degree: Second Class Honors (Upper Division) in Information and Communications Technology from the Federal University of Technology, Yola (2002-2007).

• Postgraduate Studies: At the time of his assassination, he was pursuing a Master's degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at ABU Zaria.

In addition to his formal education, Albani Zaria earned multiple professional certifications in information technology and telecommunications, including A+, N+, and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer credentials.

Islamic Scholarship and Teaching

Albani Zaria was deeply committed to Islamic studies, focusing on Hadith and Fiqh. Although he gained admission to the Islamic University of Madina in 1991/92, circumstances prevented his attendance. Nonetheless, he studied under esteemed scholars such as Sheikh Salih ibn Uthaimin, Sheikh Zarban Al-Gamidy, Sheikh Muslih Al-Harithiy, Professor Ali Nasir Al-Faqihi, and Sheikh Tuwaijiri during visits to Saudi Arabia.

His dedication to Hadith studies earned him the nickname "Albani," in homage to the renowned scholar Muhammad Nasiruddin al-Albani. He established the Darul Hadith Salafiyyah Center in Tudun Wada, Zaria, a hub for Islamic learning and propagation of Salafi teachings. Additionally, he founded the Albani Science Academy in Gaskiya Layout, Zaria, integrating secular and religious education.

Advocacy and Ideological Stance

As a leading figure in Nigeria's Salafi movement, Albani Zaria advocated for a return to the practices of the Salaf (the first three generations of Muslims). He emphasized strict adherence to the Qur'an and Sunnah, rejecting innovations (bid'ah) in religious practices. He was also a vocal critic of extremist ideologies and opposed the Boko Haram insurgency, promoting the coexistence of Western education alongside Islamic studies.

Assassination and Legacy

On February 1, 2014, after delivering an evening tafsir lecture at Markazu-Salafiyya in Tudun Wada, Zaria, Albani Zaria was ambushed by gunmen near his residence. The attackers fatally shot his wife and son on the spot; Albani Zaria succumbed to his injuries en route to St. Luke's Hospital in Wusasa, Zaria.

His assassination was a significant loss to the Nigerian Muslim community. However, his legacy endures through his numerous students and the institutions he established, which continue to promote Islamic scholarship and the principles he championed.