By OBBM Network Editorial Staff

Derived from an episode of Securing America.

Imagine a country where a centuries-old caliphate has been hiding in plain sight, perpetuating genocide and terror against its own people. This is the stark reality in Nigeria, where the Sokoto Caliphate has been responsible for the deaths of millions and the enslavement of countless more. The caliphate’s influence extends far beyond Nigeria’s borders, with implications for global security and human rights.

History of the Sokoto Caliphate

The Sokoto Caliphate was established in 1804 by Usman Dan Fodio, a radical Islamic leader who launched a jihad against the indigenous peoples of Nigeria. The caliphate’s doctrine was simple: any Muslim who did not submit to its authority must be killed. This ideology has been used to justify the persecution of Christians, as well as Muslims who do not adhere to the caliphate’s strict interpretation of Islam.

As Frank Gaffney, host of Securing America, noted in a recent conversation with Mike Arnold, a man of extraordinary courage and commitment to human rights, the Sokoto Caliphate is a phenomenon that goes back to 1804. Arnold explained that the caliphate has been responsible for the deaths of millions and the enslavement of countless more, with its influence extending far beyond Nigeria’s borders.

The Caliphate’s Influence on Nigerian Politics

The Sokoto Caliphate has played a significant role in shaping Nigerian politics, with its leaders often holding positions of power and influence. The caliphate’s control over the country’s oil reserves has also given it considerable economic power, allowing it to exert its influence over the government and the military.

According to Arnold, the caliphate’s influence is not limited to Nigeria. He noted that the current Sultan of Sokoto, the head of the caliphate, has risen to power after serving in the military and representing the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. This has given the caliphate a global reach, with implications for international security and human rights.

Implications for Global Security

The Sokoto Caliphate’s influence extends far beyond Nigeria’s borders, with implications for global security and human rights. The caliphate’s radical ideology has inspired other extremist groups, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State of West Africa. The caliphate’s control over Nigeria’s oil reserves has also given it considerable economic power, allowing it to exert its influence over the government and the military.

As the world grapples with the threat of extremism and terrorism, it is essential to understand the roots of these ideologies. The Sokoto Caliphate’s history and influence provide a stark reminder of the dangers of radicalism and the importance of promoting human rights and democracy.

In the words of Mike Arnold, ‘The Sokoto Caliphate is a phenomenon that goes back to 1804, and it’s still going, still doing it. It’s the longest running active genocide on the face of the earth today.’ The international community must take notice of this humanitarian crisis and work towards a solution that promotes peace, stability, and human rights in Nigeria and beyond.

The full episode of Securing America is available on OBBM Network TV.