The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has described the passing of renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, as a profound national loss that has created a “deep moral vacuum” in Nigeria’s pursuit of unity and peaceful coexistence. The influential Tijjaniyya leader died on November 27, 2025.
In a condolence message issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. T. A. Muhammad-Baba, the ACF praised the late Sheikh as one of the most respected voices in the Islamic world, widely honoured for his lifelong commitment to tolerance, moderation and national cohesion.
The Forum noted that for decades, Sheikh Dahiru used his scholarship to bridge divides across ethnic, religious and political lines.
His leadership in the Tijjaniyya order, which commands millions of followers across West Africa, was described as both unifying and moderating, countering extremism and promoting peaceful engagement.
The ACF recalled his active role in religious bodies such as JNI, NSCIA and NIREC, where he championed interfaith dialogue and mutual respect.
The Forum said his death comes at “a challenging moment” when Nigeria urgently needs moral guides committed to healing divisions and promoting peace. His life, it added, remains a model for strengthening the country’s fragile social fabric.
