A prominent Islamic cleric in Zaria, Sheikh Usman Idris, popularly known as “Rigi-Rigi,” has passed away at the age of 57, marking the end of a widely respected religious life that touched both traditional and digital aunces.
The death of the cleric was confirmed on Monday by Malam Nasiruddeen Umar, also known as Baharu, a senior disciple of the late scholar, in a statement to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Zaria. According to Umar, Sheikh Usman, also referred to as Sheikh Usman Kusfa, d in the early hours of Monday at a private hospital in Kaduna after battling an illness for several months.
Sheikh Usman Idris was well known for his passionate Islamic teachings and sermons, which earned him a strong following in Zaria and beyond. In recent years, his influence expanded significantly through social media, particularly on TikTok and other digital platforms, where his short teachings and admonitions attracted thousands of followers across Nigeria and the diaspora. His ability to combine traditional Islamic scholarship with modern communication tools made him especially popular among younger aunces.
Followers and admirers have described the cleric as a devoted teacher who emphasized moral discipline, faith, and community responsibility. His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from students, fellow clerics, and social media followers who praised his dedication to Islamic education and da’awah.
Umar disclosed that the late cleric is survived by four wives, 37 children, and many grandchildren. He added that funeral prayers for Sheikh Usman Idris have been scheduled to take place on Monday at 4:30 p.m. in Kusfa, Zaria City.
The passing of Sheikh “Rigi-Rigi” is regarded as a significant loss to the Islamic community in northern Nigeria, particularly in Zaria, where he spent much of his life teaching and guiding others.
I cant believe Sheikh Usman Idris Rigi-Rigi passed away! His teachings were so influential. Who will fill his shoes?
Wow, Sheikh Usman Idris was a true icon. Who do you think will fill his shoes in the Zaria Islamic community?
I cant believe Sheikh Usman Idris Rigi-Rigi is gone. His teachings were so impactful. What a loss to the community.
I cant believe Sheikh Usman Idris “Rigi-Rigi” passed away so young at 57. His teachings will be missed. May he rest in peace.
Wow, such a loss! Do you think his teachings will continue to influence the community in Zaria? #RIPSheikhUsmanIdris
I cant believe Sheikh Usman Idris is gone. What do you think his legacy will be? Share your thoughts!
I cant believe Sheikh Rigi-Rigi passed away. His teachings were so impactful. Who will fill his shoes now?
Wow, what a loss! Do you think Sheikh Usman Idriss legacy will live on in Zarias Islamic community?
I cant believe Sheikh Idris passed away so young. His teachings were enlightening. Who will carry on his legacy now?
I cant believe Sheikh Usman Idris Rigi-Rigi passed away. Who will fill his shoes in Zarias Islamic community?