Renowned Islamic scholar and leader of the Tijjaniyya Sufi order in Nigeria, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, has died.
Reports of his passing began circulating early Thursday morning. His death was later confirmed by a former presidential aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Bashir Ahmad, in a post on X.
“It is with a heavy heart and complete submission to the will of Allah (SAW) that we receive the news of the passing of our revered leader, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi,” Ahmad wrote, offering prayers for the respected cleric. “May Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his noble deeds and grant him Jannatul Firdaus. Ameen.”
The scholar’s son, Sayyadi Ali Dahiru Usman Bauchi, also confirmed the development to Daily Trust.
“It is confirmed. Sheikh has returned to his creator. We are all from Allah and to Him we shall all return,” he said.
“It is time for Sheikh to rest. We thank Almighty Allah… Sheikh’s life was well spent. Alhamdulillah.”
Sayyadi Ali, who spoke from Madinah, said burial arrangements were still uncertain. “I cannot confirm to you where the remains of the Sheikh will be buried; maybe in Abuja or Bauchi,” he stated.
As of the time of reporting, the Bauchi State Government and the scholar’s family had not released an official public statement regarding his passing.
Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, widely revered for his scholarship, preaching, and spiritual leadership, was one of the most influential figures in the Tijjaniyya movement in West Africa. His death marks a significant loss for the Muslim community in Nigeria and beyond.