A former Military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar(retd), on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the death of the renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, describing him as a “towering figure in Islamic scholarship.”

Mr Abubakar said during a telephone interview on Thursday that the deceased contributed positively to the promotion of religious tolerance and understanding among Nigerians.

Mr Abubakar, who offered prayers for the repose of the scholar’s soul, also acknowledged his lasting impact on Muslim Ummah.

According to him, the nation joins the family, followers and the broader Muslim community in praying for the forgiveness and eternal repose of Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi.

He said, “May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus and comfort his loved ones.”

Sheikh Bauchi, born in 1927 in Gombe State, devoted more than seven decades to Islamic propagation, education and the promotion of peaceful coexistence.

He was a recipient of the national honour of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) and was widely respected for his teachings on moral discipline, tolerance and unity.

The deceased left behind 61 children, numerous grandchildren and great‑grandchildren.

(NAN)