Sheikh Dahiru Usman-Bauchi, one of the most influential leaders of the Tijjaniyya Islamic sect and a towering figure in West African Islamic scholarship, has died at the age of 102.
The revered cleric passed away in the early hours of Thursday at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed confirmed the passing and extended condolences to the late scholar’s family, students, followers, and the wider Muslim Ummah across Nigeria and beyond. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, the governor described Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi as a man of deep faith, humility, and immense wisdom.
He noted that the late Sheikh devoted his entire life to propagating Islam, teaching the Holy Qur’an, and uplifting communities morally and spiritually. He highlighted that through his many schools and learning centres, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi mentored thousands who went on to memorise the Qur’an and spread Islamic knowledge across Africa.
Governor Mohammed said the cleric’s contributions to theology, jurisprudence, and Islamic history have left an enduring impact on the intellectual and spiritual life of the nation. He added that the state government would continue to honour his legacy by supporting the Islamic institutions and values he championed.
The governor prayed for Allah’s forgiveness upon the late scholar and for Aljannatul Firdaus to be granted to him, while asking God to give his family, followers, and the Ummah the strength to bear the loss.
