Vice-President Kashim Shettima has called on upcoming Islamic scholars across Nigeria and the African continent to uphold the values of tolerance, peaceful dialogue, and inclusivity championed by the late Sheikh Dahiru Usman-Bauchi.
Shettima made the appeal on Friday after attending the revered cleric’s burial in Bauchi, describing his death as a tremendous loss to the country and the global Muslim community.
According to the Vice-President, Sheikh Bauchi was not only a spiritual guide but a symbol of Islamic scholarship whose teachings promoted unity and moderation. He said the late leader of the Tijjaniyya movement embodied the true essence of Islam.
“This nation has lost a colossus—an institution in his own right and one of the last great pillars of Islamic knowledge,” Shettima said.
“We encourage our emerging scholars to walk the path of moderation, dialogue, and inclusiveness. This is the real heritage of Islam—not extremism and not fanaticism.”
He prayed for God’s mercy on the late cleric and asked Allah to grant him Aljannatul Firdaus, while also praying for comfort for his family and his millions of followers.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed also paid tribute, describing Sheikh Bauchi as an extraordinary figure whose teachings shaped Islamic education and transformed many lives.
“He established a rich legacy of Qur’anic research and mentorship. We have lost a father, a guide, and a monumental figure,” the governor said.
Similarly, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf said the scholar’s passing was a heavy blow not only to his family but to the entire Muslim Ummah worldwide. He noted that Sheikh Bauchi was renowned for teaching Qur’an and Hadith to millions, especially within the Tijjaniyya order. He prayed for Allah to grant him eternal rest.
Niger State Governor Umar Bago also expressed gratitude for the cleric’s impactful life, saying the late scholar would be remembered for his devotion, leadership, and lasting contributions to Islam.