El Kutumbi

Muhammad Dan Nazakipronunciation^ⓘ (1623–1648), known as El Kutumbipronunciation^ⓘ or Muhammad Alwali Ipronunciation^ⓘ was the twenty-ninth ruler of Kano and the patriarch of the eponymous Kutumbawa, the last faction of Hausa aristocrats in Kano.^[1] Like the Gaudawa and Rumfawa line of rulers, his house is not primarily differentiated based on lineage but rather significant political and social reforms ushered during their era. While the Rumfawa preferred a more centralized system of government, the reign of Kutumbi and his descendants saw the devolution of power through various new government offices.^[2] They also imposed new forms of taxation, most notably on the cattle of the Fula.^[3] El Kutumbi's reign was also characterized by successful conquests against Gombe, Bauchi and Kano's principal rival, Katsina. He died of battle wounds after a second expedition against the latter. The Kano Chronicle described him as one of Kano's greatest kings.^[4]