The Nigerian Islamic community is in mourning. Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, a revered scholar and leader of the Tijjaniyya order, has died.
Reports of the cleric’s death emerged early Thursday morning. This event marks the end of an era for one of the country’s most influential religious figures.
Family Confirms Demise
The deceased’s son, Sayyadi Ali Dahiru Usman Bauchi, confirmed the news. Speaking from Madinah, Saudi Arabia, he expressed total submission to the will of the Almighty. He noted that his father lived a life dedicated to service.
“It is confirmed. Sheikh has returned to his creator,” Sayyadi Ali stated. “It is time for Sheikh to rest. We thank Almighty Allah who spared his life till this time.”
Currently, the family and the Bauchi State Government have not made a formal announcement. Therefore, the burial location remains unclear. It could take place in Abuja or Bauchi.
Meanwhile, tributes have started pouring in. Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad publicly mourned the scholar. He prayed for Allah to grant him Jannatul Firdaus.
A Life of Service and Philanthropy
Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi was a giant in the Islamic landscape. He served as the Deputy Chairman of the Fatwa Committee in Nigeria. Beyond his religious duties, he was a committed philanthropist.
He facilitated educational opportunities for youths through his foundation. In October 2025, the Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi Foundation sponsored over 117 students. These students traveled to Algeria to pursue academic programs.
“Waiting for the Car”
The Sheikh was known for his wisdom and longevity. He led a vast family. After marrying his first wife in 1948, he was blessed with approximately 70 children and many grandchildren. All of them were trained in Quranic education.
In his later years, he viewed life with profound preparedness. He once compared himself to a traveler waiting at a park.
“I see myself as someone who has put his loads at the park,” he reflected. “I am waiting for a car to come so that he can put the loads inside.”
A Voice for Peace
The cleric also took a vocal stance on national issues. During the farmer-herder crisis, he advocated for fairness. He cautioned against the blanket demonization of the Fulani ethnic group.
He argued that criminal elements often disguised themselves to commit violence. Furthermore, he questioned how traditional herdsmen could acquire sophisticated weaponry for such attacks.
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