The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, a revered Islamic scholar and spiritual leader, who died at the age of 98.

In a statement, NEF spokesperson Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere described Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi as “a guiding light, a father to the Ummah, a refuge for the troubled, and a voice of truth,” emphasizing that his wisdom and compassion touched countless lives.

The Forum noted that his death represents not just the loss of a respected scholar, but “the fading of a rare, radiant star whose brilliance shaped generations.” For decades, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi stood as a pillar of faith, humility, and modesty, offering comfort to families, guidance to communities, and inspiration to leaders across Africa.

“His unwavering dedication to peace, justice, and unity earned him admiration far beyond Nigeria’s borders,” the statement read.

NEF extended heartfelt condolences to his family, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government and people of Bauchi State, the global Muslim Ummah, and all Nigerians influenced by his teachings.

The Forum’s convener, Professor Ango Abdullahi CON, and the chairman of the management board, Air Marshal Al-Amin Daggash CFR (rtd), described Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s death as “a loss of immeasurable magnitude” and prayed for strength, patience, and resilience for his family, the Ummah, and the nation.

Highlighting his legacy, NEF praised his lifelong commitment to interfaith harmony, peaceful coexistence, and compassion, noting that his presence united communities and calmed tensions. They prayed for Allah’s mercy, asking that his grave be expanded and that he be granted the highest place in Jannatul Firdausi.

“The Muslim Ummah has lost a pillar, humanity has lost a guiding light, and we have lost a treasure,” the Forum concluded.