Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, one of Nigeria’s most influential Islamic scholars and the spiritual leader of the Tijaniyyah Sufi order, has passed away at the reported age of 100.
Okay News reports that the revered cleric died on Tuesday, marking the end of a remarkable era for millions of followers across Nigeria and West Africa.
Born in Nafada, Gombe State, Sheikh Dahiru began his Islamic education under the guidance of his father before traveling widely across the region to deepen his knowledge of the Quran, jurisprudence, and the Tijaniyyah Tariqah. His scholarly journey took him to several countries where Sufism is prominent, including Morocco and Senegal.
Over the decades, he became known as one of the most respected voices in Islamic scholarship, often engaging in theological debates and facing confrontations with rival sects. Despite this, he maintained a reputation for deep spiritual discipline and mastery of Quranic recitation.
A prolific writer, Sheikh Dahiru authored numerous works on Islamic jurisprudence, Sufism, and spiritual practice. His books are studied not only in Nigeria but also across the broader Sufi world.
He founded the Ithad Ansarul Faelat Tijaniyat of Nigeria and served as a member of the Fatwa Committee of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), where he played a significant role in shaping national religious discourse.
The cleric was also known for his large family, reportedly leaving behind 95 children, 406 grandchildren, and four wives.
