Chronicle of the Life and Times of Professor Haliru Binji (1922–1993)
By Abubakar AbdurRahman Dodo
Professor Haliru Binji was a distinguished scholar of Fiqh — Islamic Jurisprudence — whose intellectual and spiritual influence extended far beyond the walls of the university. Revered for his depth of knowledge and humility, he was a Professor of Islamic Legal Studies at the University of Sokoto, now known as Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS).
Early Life and Education
Born in 1922 in Kalgo town, located in present-day Binji Local Government Area of Sokoto State, Professor Binji hailed from a deeply rooted scholarly family. He was one of twenty-eight siblings — twenty males and eight females — in a household where the pursuit of knowledge was a cherished tradition passed down from generation to generation.
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His father, Abubakar, son of Alkalin Gande Muhammad Zagani, and his mother, Hauwa (popularly known as Kwangila), were both known for their deep Islamic learning. Under their guidance, young Haliru began his education at home, memorizing the Qur’an and studying Islamic sciences.
He later attended Gwadabawa Elementary School, proceeded to Middle School, and in pursuit of advanced studies, travelled to Sudan, where he studied both Common Law and Islamic Legal System (Shariah).
Among his contemporaries and close associates were Alhaji Shehu Shagari, who later became President of Nigeria, and Sheikh Abubakar Mahmoud Gumi (R.A.), the former Grand Khadi of Northern Nigeria.
Career in Civil Service and Academia
Upon returning to Nigeria, Professor Haliru Binji began his distinguished service in the judiciary. He was appointed Deputy Grand Khadi of the old North-Western State, and later became the first Grand Khadi of Sokoto State — a position that underscored his authority and respect in Islamic jurisprudence.
His academic journey reached its peak at the Faculty of Law, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, where he lectured in Shariah and Comparative Law. Through years of dedicated research, publications, and mentorship, he earned promotion to the rank of Professor of Law.
Students fondly remembered him as a generous teacher who freely provided course materials and handouts, always committed to making learning accessible to all.
Scholarship, Publications, and Religious Service
Professor Binji was a prolific writer whose works remain reference materials in Islamic legal studies. His most acclaimed publication, “Ibada da Hukunci” (Act of Worship and Religious Rulings in Islam, Volumes I & II*), has been widely read across Nigeria and beyond. The book has also been transcribed into Hausa Ajami (Hausa written in Arabic script).
During his lifetime, he regularly presented Qur’anic exegesis (Tafsir) sessions broadcast on NTA Sokoto and various radio stations. His clarity in interpretation earned him recognition by the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), which conferred on him the title of Mufassir — an interpreter of the Qur’an and Islamic rulings on complex religious matters.
Awards and Recognitions
In recognition of his lifelong service to education, religion, and humanity, Professor Haliru Binji was honored with the National Award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
He also received several posthumous recognitions, including the Selfless Service to Humanity Award (2023) by the Sultan Bello Old Pupils Association.
Family and Legacy
Professor Binji was blessed with a large and accomplished family. He is survived by four wives, thirty children, and seventy-five grandchildren.
Among his notable children are:
Justice Muhammad Haliru Binji, retired High Court Judge of Sokoto State.
Engr. Yusuf Haliru Binji, Managing Director, BUA Group.
Hajiya Asmau Mohammed Maleka, retired Director, Debt Management Office (DMO), and a Commission Member, NEDC.
Hajiya Binta Isyaku Ibrahim, former Registrar, Bayero University, Kano.
Hajiya Amina Yusuf Garba, former Registrar, Sokoto State University.
Hajiya Aisha Umar Hassan, former Permanent Secretary, Sokoto State Civil Service.
Mr. Bashir Haliru Binji, Managing Director, Zenith Insurance.
Pharm. Ibrahim Haliru Binji, Managing Director, Binji Pharmacy chain.
Education, integrity, and service remain the enduring hallmarks of the Binji family — a legacy sustained by Professor Haliru Binji’s devotion to faith and scholarship.
Final Years and Passing
Professor Haliru Binji departed this world on Friday, 22nd October 1993.
His students, colleagues, and admirers continue to speak of his humility, generosity, and unwavering commitment to spreading Islamic knowledge. Many still cherish and replay his Tafsir recordings, a timeless echo of his scholarship.
Conclusion
Professor Haliru Binji was more than an academic — he was a moral compass, a teacher of teachers, and a guiding light in the study of Islamic jurisprudence. His works, teachings, and family continue to illuminate paths of learning and faith.
May Almighty Allah (SWT) grant him Jannatul Firdaus and continue to bless his noble legacy.
Amin.
Dodo writes from S/Kofar Waika Kano.
