Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has announced plans to establish a foundation in honor of the late Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, who passed away on November 27. The foundation aims to promote inter-religious harmony, a cause the late Sheikh championed throughout his lifetime. Governor Sani made this commitment during a condolence visit to the late Sheikh’s family in Bauchi, where he led a 30-member delegation.
The Governor stated that the Kaduna State Government will set up a committee comprising the late Sheikh’s family members, students, and stakeholders to outline the foundation’s details. Although Sheikh Bauchi was from Bauchi State, Governor Sani emphasized that Kaduna State will play a significant role in immortalizing his legacy due to his contributions to Islam, good governance, and peaceful coexistence.
Governor Sani recalled his close relationship with the late Sheikh, seeking his counsel on various matters and valuing his advice. He pledged to continue the late Sheikh’s efforts in promoting unity among Muslims and adherents of different religions, not only in Kaduna State but across the country.
The Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Alhaji Mohammed Auwal Jatau, noted that Governor Sani was in China on an official assignment when the late Sheikh passed away and had promptly offered his condolences to the Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed. A special committee was also constituted in Kaduna to receive condolences from the late Sheikh’s students and well-wishers.
The late Sheikh’s son, Khalifa Sayyid Ibrahim Dahiru Bauchi, expressed gratitude to Governor Sani for his consistent show of respect and support, including a promise to rebuild their grandfather’s residence where the late Sheikh grew up. The delegation included notable figures such as the Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Yusuf Dahiru Liman, and representatives from various states and Islamic organizations.
The establishment of the foundation underscores the significance of Sheikh Bauchi’s legacy in promoting inter-religious harmony and peaceful coexistence. As the committee works out the foundation’s details, it is expected to play a vital role in continuing the late Sheikh’s work, fostering unity, and implementing his planned initiatives. The move is seen as a testament to the impact of Sheikh Bauchi’s teachings and the commitment of Governor Sani to upholding his values.