Abubakar Gumi

Sheikh Abubakar Mahmud Gumi was one of the most influential Islamic scholars in Nigeria in the 20th century. He was known for his Quran commentary in Hausa (Rayyoyin Kur'ani) and his reformist stance challenging traditional hierarchies in northern Nigerian Islam. He advocated for direct engagement with the Quran and Sunnah over reliance on traditional religious authorities. His followers became known as 'Yan Izala' and his influence reshaped Islamic discourse in northern Nigeria.