Correct Option: B. a Muslim fanatic Explanation of the Correct Answer In Ahmed Yerima's play "Attahiru," the character of Attahiru is depicted as a deeply religious individual whose actions and motivations are heavily influenced by his Islamic faith. The term "fanatic" in this context refers to someone who is extremely passionate and zealous about their beliefs, often to the point of being uncompromising or extreme.

1. Religious Zeal: Attahiru's character is driven by a strong commitment to his faith. His decisions and actions throughout the play reflect a fervent belief in the principles of Islam, which he interprets as a call to action against colonial forces. This unwavering dedication can be seen as fanaticism, as it leads him to take extreme measures in the name of his religion.
2. Conflict and Martyrdom: Attahiru's actions are not just about personal belief; they are also about defending his community and faith against perceived threats. His willingness to sacrifice himself for what he believes in aligns with the characteristics of a martyr, but the intensity of his religious fervor leans more towards fanaticism. He is not merely a martyr; he embodies the extreme devotion that can lead to radical actions.
3. Historical Context: The play is set against the backdrop of colonialism and the struggle for independence, where Attahiru's religious motivations intersect with political resistance. His character can be seen as a representation of the complexities of faith in the face of oppression, but the primary lens through which he operates is his religious conviction, which is often portrayed in a fanatical light.

Explanation of Why Other Options Are Weaker

• A. An egocentric patriot: While Attahiru does exhibit patriotism, his motivations are not primarily self-serving. An egocentric patriot would act out of self-interest, seeking personal glory or gain. In contrast, Attahiru's actions are driven by a sense of duty to his faith and community rather than personal ambition.
• C. A religious martyr: Although Attahiru can be seen as a martyr due to his ultimate sacrifice, this option does not fully capture the intensity of his beliefs. A martyr typically suffers for their faith without the connotation of extreme zealotry. Attahiru's actions are more aligned with fanaticism, as he actively seeks conflict and is willing to engage in violence for his beliefs.
• D. A political revolutionary: While Attahiru does engage in revolutionary activities against colonial powers, his motivations are deeply rooted in his religious beliefs rather than purely political ideology. A political revolutionary might prioritize political change over religious conviction, but for Attahiru, his faith is the driving force behind his revolutionary actions.

Revision Summary

• Attahiru is characterized as a "Muslim fanatic" due to his extreme devotion to his faith, which drives his actions.
• His willingness to sacrifice himself for his beliefs aligns with the concept of fanaticism rather than mere martyrdom.
• Other options like "egocentric patriot," "religious martyr," and "political revolutionary" do not fully encapsulate the depth of his religious zeal and motivations.
• Understanding the interplay between religion and politics in Attahiru's character is crucial for grasping the themes of the play.