The family of Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi today announced the passing of the revered Islamic scholar and leader of the Tijaniyyah Sufi order in Nigeria. Sheikh Dahiru, aged 98, died after a prolonged illness at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi. His death marks the end of an era for millions of followers who drew inspiration from his teachings on faith, unity, and devotion.
Born on June 29, 1927, in Nafada, now part of Gombe State, Sheikh Dahiru dedicated his life to Islamic scholarship from a young age. He memorized the Quran early and studied under prominent scholars, including Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass from Senegal. As a key figure in the Tijaniyyah movement, he rose to prominence after Nyass's death in 1975, guiding the order across Africa.
Sheikh Dahiru founded the Ithad Ansarul Faelat Tijaniyat and authored numerous books on Islamic jurisprudence and Sufism. He began delivering Quran interpretations in Bauchi in 1950, reaching audiences through radio broadcasts.
Remarkably, he performed Hajj 55 times and Umrah 205 times, embodying unwavering piety. He also promoted education by building student housing and encouraging a blend of Islamic and Western learning among his family and followers.
His son, Sayyadi Ali Dahiru Usman Bauchi, confirmed the news from Madinah, stating, "It is confirmed. Sheikh has returned to his Creator. We are all from Allah and to Him we shall all return. It is time for Sheikh to rest. We thank Almighty Allah. Allah has done everything for us to spare the life of Sheikh till this time. Sheikh’s life was well spent. Alhamdulillah." The family has yet to finalize burial arrangements, which may occur in Abuja or Bauchi.
Tributes poured in from across Nigeria. Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad expressed grief on X, saying, "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, one of the leaders of the Tijjaniyya order in Nigeria. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus." Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed also mourned the loss, praising Sheikh Dahiru's dedication to Allah and humanity.
Sheikh Dahiru leaves behind over 100 children, 406 grandchildren, and 100 great-grandchildren, many of whom have memorized the Quran. His legacy of promoting peace, scholarship, and spiritual guidance continues to inspire the Muslim community in Nigeria and beyond.