He Was a Spiritual Colossus — Atiku Mourns Islamic Scholar Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has mourned the passing of renowned Islamic scholar and global leader of the Tijjaniyya movement, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, describing him as a “spiritual colossus” whose influence shaped generations of Muslims across Africa.
Atiku, who was in Bauchi on Friday alongside a delegation, joined thousands of worshippers for the Janaza prayer held at the Bauchi Central Eid Ground in honour of the revered cleric, who died on Thursday.
In a statement posted on his X handle shortly after the funeral rites, Atiku expressed profound sadness over the loss, noting that Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi devoted nearly seven decades to Islamic scholarship, moral teaching, and community guidance.
“It was with a heavy heart that I joined other distinguished leaders and sympathisers in Bauchi today to bid farewell to an Islamic scholar of global renown,” he wrote.
“Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi dedicated nearly seventy years of his life to the annual Ramadan Tafsir, offering profound insights into the Holy Qur’an and shaping generations of Muslims across Nigeria and the African continent.”
Atiku also reflected on his personal relationship with the late spiritual leader, saying he had long benefited from the scholar’s wisdom, compassion, and unwavering commitment to peace.
“I have known him closely and have benefited immensely from his wealth of wisdom over the years. His counsel was always rooted in sincerity, peace, and deep knowledge,” he added.
The funeral drew an array of dignitaries, including Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, lawmakers, traditional rulers, Islamic scholars from across West Africa, and leaders of various Sufi orders
all paying their final respects to the cleric widely regarded as one of the most influential Islamic figures in the region.
Atiku noted that although Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s passing marks the end of an era, his teachings, values, and extensive network of students and disciples will continue to uphold and propagate his legacy.
“Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s life was a testament to devotion, scholarship, and service to humanity.
His legacy will endure through his children, students, and the countless lives he touched,” he said.
The late Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi is expected to be remembered for his lifelong dedication to propagating Islamic knowledge, promoting peaceful coexistence, and mentoring thousands of followers across sub-Saharan Africa.
