Sheikh Bauchi was a rare, radiant star – Northern elders

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) on Sunday mourned the passing of esteemed Islamic scholar and spiritual leader, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, who died at the age of 97.

His death has cast a sombre shadow over Nigeria, Africa, and the global Muslim community, prompting tributes for a figure widely celebrated as one of the most influential religious voices of his era.

In a statement, NEF spokesperson Professor Abubakar Jiddere hailed Sheikh Bauchi as “a beacon of guidance, a father to the Ummah, a haven for the distressed, and a voice of unwavering truth.” He noted that the scholar’s compassion and wisdom had touched the lives of countless people.

“His passing marks not only the loss of a revered teacher but the dimming of a rare and radiant star whose brilliance shaped generations,” the statement added.

For decades, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi stood as a pillar of faith, humility, and modesty in the Muslim world. His teachings, prayers, and guidance provided solace to families, counsel to communities, and inspiration to leaders across Africa. His lifelong dedication to peace, justice, and unity earned him respect far beyond Nigeria’s borders.

Professor Jiddere said: “The intellectual and spiritual realm of Islam grows quieter and dimmer with his departure. The Northern Elders Forum extends heartfelt condolences to his family, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government and people of Bauchi State, the entire Muslim Ummah, and every Nigerian whose life was touched by his wisdom.”

The NEF leadership, including the Convener and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Prof. Ango Abdullahi, CON, and the Chairman of the Management Board, Air Marshal Al-Amin Daggash, CFR, rtd, described Sheikh Bauchi’s passing as a “loss of immeasurable magnitude” whose influence extended far beyond his immediate followers.

They prayed for Allah to grant strength to his family, patience and mercy to the Ummah, and resilience to the nation as it comes to terms with the loss of “a father, a teacher, and a luminous spiritual presence whose absence will be felt for generations.”

The Forum also celebrated Sheikh Bauchi’s lifelong dedication to fostering interfaith harmony, nurturing peaceful coexistence, and championing compassion throughout society.

Born in 1927 in Gombe, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi devoted his life to Qur’anic education, Islamic scholarship, and spiritual mentorship, earning widespread prominence both nationally and internationally.