Economic Ideas of Shehu Usman dan Fodio

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Periodical article

Title:	Economic Ideas of Shehu Usman dan Fodio
Author:	Gusau, Sule Ahmed
Year:	1989
Periodical:	Journal of the Institute of Muslim Minority Affairs
Volume:	10
Issue:	1
Pages:	139-151
Language:	English
Geographic terms:	Nigeria Northern Nigeria
Subjects:	economic theories Sokoto polity traditional rulers Religion and Witchcraft Economics and Trade Politics and Government
About person:	Usumanu Dan Fodio (1754-1817)
External link:	https://doi.org/10.1080/02666958908716111
Abstract:	This paper briefly outlines the economic ideas of Shehu Usman Dan Fodio (1754-1817) of Sokoto, Nigeria. They encompass an economic philosophy, and views on the market mechanism and market regulation, the role of the government in the economy, public finance, and land distribution. Shehu Dan Fodio's views are compared with those of his contemporaries, in particular his brother Sheikh Abdullahi and his son Muhammad Bello, who were both his students as well as co-leaders in the Sokoto jihad movement. All three based their economic philosophy on the three ideals of justice, charity, and moderation. They emphasized the importance of work and the creation of surplus, the importance of the office of the 'muhtasib' (censor of morals), and the role of the government in the economy. All three opposed heavy taxation. Shehu's ideas on the market mechanism were limited, but these issues were not critical at the time. Notes, ref.