By Sheikh Idris Abdul’aziz Dutsen Tanshi, has passed away at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness. The outspoken cleric, known for his fearless preaching and strong views on governance, died on Thursday night, April 3, 2025, at his residence in Bauchi. His funeral prayer held Friday at the Games Village Eid Ground drew thousands of mourners including Islamic scholars, civil servants, and followers from across the region.
Born in 1957 in Gwaram village, Alkaleri LGA, Sheikh Idris pursued Islamic studies from local and international institutions, eventually earning a PhD in Islamic Legal Theory. He founded the Dutsen Tanshi Majlis in Bauchi, where he served as Chief Imam for decades. A staunch promoter of Sunni doctrine and critic of Bid’ah, he earned the nickname “Dr. Tauhidi” from his disciples for his unwavering commitment to Islamic monotheism.
Throughout his life, Sheikh Idris was known for clashing with every civilian administration in Bauchi since 1999, including the current Governor Bala Mohammed. Though he initially supported Bala’s 2019 election bid, their relationship soured due to disagreements over governance. Tensions escalated to the point where the cleric was declared wanted by police for contempt of court and alleged public disturbance.
Despite the controversies, Sheikh Idris maintained a loyal following. His sermons—delivered both in person and online—resonated across West Africa. He established multiple Qur’anic and Islamiyyah schools and was respected for mentoring a generation of young scholars and preachers. He also ran farms and businesses, living a modest life free from political flattery.
Following a brief truce between him and Governor Mohammed in 2024, the Sheikh’s health rapidly declined. After seeking treatment in Saudi Arabia and India—where doctors reportedly deemed his condition incurable—he chose to return home. He died surrounded by family, marking the end of a 40-year legacy of preaching and public engagement.
Despite their differences, Governor Bala Mohammed has paid glowing tribute to the late cleric, describing him as a fearless voice for justice and truth. He pledged to restore the Games Village Eid Ground in his honour and led a delegation to the late Sheikh’s family to offer condolences. “Bauchi has lost a voice of wisdom,” he said, praying for the Sheikh’s soul to find peace in Aljannatul Firdaus.
