Biography
Alhaji Dr. Aliyu Akilu M.F.R (1918 – October 19, 1999), also known as Malam Akilu Aliyu or Aqilu Aliyu, stands as one of the most eminent Hausa poets of the twentieth century. Born in Jega, a town called Kyarmi in present-day Kebbi State, Nigeria, Akilu's journey through life was marked by his dedication to education, poetry, and politics.
Akilu's formative years were spent in Kano, where he arrived as an Islamic student in his teens. His life was a tapestry woven with threads of scholarship and artistry. He spent several decades in Maiduguri before returning to Kano, where he lived until his passing. A multifaceted individual, Akilu was an Islamic teacher, a tailor, and a poet. His poetry served as a medium through which he educated thousands of students, many of whom never met him in person. His contributions to Islamic education were significant, having established and taught in Islamic schools in Maiduguri and Azare.
Education
Akilu's education began in a Quranic school in Kano, where he studied under the Tijaniyya brotherhood. His quest for knowledge later took him to Borno, where he studied under prominent Islamic scholars from northeastern Nigeria. An erudite poet, Akilu wrote in both Hausa and Arabic, his recitals earning widespread acclaim among Hausa speakers. His poetic talents were evident from a young age; in a 1966 interview with Radio Nigeria, Kaduna, he revealed that he began composing Arabic poems as a teenager, amassing over seven hundred poems by that time, some extending to three hundred verses, and even one with a thousand verses.
Literary Contributions
Akilu's prowess in poetry was revered by fellow Hausa literati. Professor Neil Skinner, a renowned Hausa scholar, described him as a "vigorous and highly productive poet" in his book "An Anthology of Hausa Literature." Sheikh Na’ibi Suleiman Wali, an Islamic scholar and bilingual poet, referred to Akilu as a "fasihi," a Hausanised Arabic word meaning ‘talented’. Esteemed poet Alhaji Mudi Sipikin also held Akilu in high regard.
During Alhaji Shehu Shagari's tenure, Akilu, along with other Hausa poets, was honored at Argungu, highlighting his esteemed position in the literary community. His recognition extended beyond literary circles; Akilu was awarded a national honor and an honorary doctorate degree from Bayero University, Kano.
Akilu's acceptance of modernity and the flexibility of his poetry further cemented his legacy. His works touched on various aspects of human existence, including religion, occupation, leisure, nature, and education. One of his most famous poems, "Kadaura Babbar Inuwa," highlights his advocacy for education. Verses from this poem serve as the signature tune for the VOA Hausa Service's educational program, "Ilimi Garkuwar Dan’adam." In this poem, Akilu encouraged youth to pursue professions such as medicine, law, teaching, journalism, and banking.
Influence and Legacy
The depth and breadth of Akilu's poetry have yet to be surpassed in Hausa literature. His ability to weave complex themes into his poetry made him a revered figure among his peers. His poetic lines, such as those under his photograph in "Fasaha Akiliya," a collection of his poems, reflect his introspective nature and his contemplation of legacy:
This is my picture
Whom your eyes are looking at me
After I went to my King
You will remember me one day
Even if someone calls my name
Then you can see that God has blessed me
Oh God, have mercy on me
Even pray for me after me;
Amen, I beg you to be my friend
God has fulfilled my hope."
Original Poem in Hausa
"Wannan dai shine hoto na
Wanda idonku yake kallo na
Bayan na tafi gun Sarkina
Za ku tuna ni watan wata rana
Ko wani ya yi kiran sunana
Sai ku cane Allah ya jikaina
Ya Allah sa ku yi juyayina
Har ku yi min addu’a bayana;
Amin na roke ku zumaina
Allah dai ya cikan fatana."
These lines encapsulate Akilu's reflective and spiritual essence, resonating deeply with his audience.
Hamisu Muhammad Gumel, another prominent figure, stated, "there could hardly be a Hausa poet with greater patriotic zeal and sense of belonging." Akilu's poetry not only reflected his personal beliefs but also instilled a sense of patriotism and cultural pride among Hausa speakers.
In conclusion, Alhaji Dr. Aliyu Akilu's contributions to Hausa poetry, Islamic scholarship, and education remain unparalleled. His legacy continues to inspire and educate future generations, solidifying his place as one of the greatest Hausa poets of the twentieth century.
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