Thousands storm Bauchi for Sheikh Dahiru’s funeral
Story by Susan Mbamah
Bauchi, Nigeria, Thousands of mourners from across Nigeria on Friday converged on Bauchi for the funeral of renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 102.
Massive crowds poured into the state capital as early as dawn, with students, followers, dignitaries, and religious leaders thronging major entry points leading to the funeral venue. Security agencies were deployed to manage traffic and control the surging crowd.
READ ALSO: Sheikh Zakzaky sends heartfelt condolences over the passing of Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi
The Bauchi State Government declared Friday a work-free day to allow residents to participate in the burial rites of the respected scholar, whose influence spread across Northern Nigeria and beyond.
According to his family, the funeral prayer was scheduled for 3:00 p.m., in line with the scholar’s personal instruction. The prayer was led by Sharif Saleh, the Grand Imam of Nigeria, whom the late Sheikh had designated in his will.
Sheikh Dahiru, a foremost Qur’anic scholar and spiritual leader, died at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) after a brief illness. His death triggered widespread mourning, with tributes flowing from political leaders, traditional rulers, and Islamic organisations.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, governors, and top government officials were among the dignitaries who attended the funeral.
Security around the venue was tightened as the influx of mourners caused heavy gridlock across the metropolis. Emergency teams and volunteers assisted in crowd management as thousands struggled to gain access to the prayer ground.
Sheikh Dahiru’s legacy includes decades of Qur’anic teaching, community development, and spiritual mentorship. His followers described him as “a pillar of Islamic scholarship whose wisdom shaped generations.”
READ ALSO: Bauchi government shuts all schools in the state due to security concerns
He has since been laid to rest in Bauchi, amid emotional scenes and prayers for Allah’s mercy upon his soul.
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