Laminu Njitiya

Laminu Njitiya (died 1871) was a 19th-century Shuwa Arab aristocrat who served as an influential adviser to Umar bin Muhammad al-Kanemi, the Shehu of Bornu. He was often described as the most powerful figure in Bornu during the second reign of Umar (1854 to 1881).[1]

Initially a highway bandit, Laminu became a follower of influential courtiers of the Shehu, including Mallam Tirab, and later his son, al-Hajj Bashir. As the chief assistant of Bashir, he was infamous for carrying out the dirty work of his master, which he did with ruthless efficiency. After Bashir's death in 1853, Laminu became Umar's closest adviser. This position granted him considerable influence and wealth in Bornu. He was known for his competence as an administrator and is remembered as the greatest 19th-century fief-holder in Magumeri.[1][2]: 80–81 

  1. ^ a b Ajayi, J. F. Ade (1972). History of West Africa. Internet Archive. New York : Columbia University Press. pp. 110–111. ISBN 978-0-231-03628-3.
  2. ^ Brenner, Louis (1973). The Shehus of Kukawa : a history of the Al-Kanemi dynasty of Bornu. Internet Archive. Oxford : Clarendon Press. ISBN 978-0-19-821681-0.