The nation is in mourning following the passing of one of its most respected Islamic scholars, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi. His death was confirmed on Thursday, November 27, 2025, by family members and associates — including former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad — sending waves of grief through religious and communities across Nigeria.

A Life of Faith, Scholarship and Service

Sheikh Bauchi, born in 1927 in what is now Gombe State, dedicated nearly eight decades to Islamic teaching, Qur’anic exegesis, and spiritual guidance. He rose to become a leading figure in the Tijjaniyya Sufi order in Nigeria, serving as the supreme leader and as Deputy Chairman of the Fatwa Committee of the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs.

Beginning his public tafsir (Qur’anic commentary) work in 1948, Sheikh Bauchi went on to broadcast his teachings via radio from 1976 onwards — through Bauchi Radio Corporation, Radio Nigeria Kaduna, and other northern-based stations — spreading Islamic knowledge across generations.

He was widely regarded for championing Islam with humility, advocating for moral discipline, interfaith tolerance, and peaceful coexistence across ethnic and religious divides. His teachings reached millions throughout Nigeria and beyond.

Legacy Beyond Scholarship

Beyond his religious scholarship, Sheikh Bauchi was known for his humanitarian works and investments in education. Over the decades, he established numerous Qur’anic schools, learning centres, and housing for students and followers. He was respected for encouraging both religious and secular education among his many children and students.

His influence crossed generations: tens of thousands of pupils memorised the Qur’an under his supervision, many of whom went into teaching and preaching themselves — expanding his legacy well beyond his lifetime.

Official Reactions: A Nation in Grief

Leaders and notable figures have expressed sorrow over the loss. Bala Mohammed, Governor of Bauchi State, described Sheikh Bauchi’s death as the loss of “a unifying voice for peace, tolerance and moral uprightness,” pledging continued support for Islamic education and community development in his memory. PM News Nigeria+1

Similarly, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, Deputy President of the Senate, mourned the departure of “a towering figure of faith whose light shone on millions of Muslims across Nigeria and beyond,” calling Sheikh Bauchi’s contributions “immeasurable.” The Sun+1

Followers, students, and Muslims nationwide are also grieving a spiritual father — many issuing prayers for his forgiveness and for his soul’s place in Jannatul Firdaus.