A Prominent Sunni scholar in Nigeria, Dr. Idris Abdul’aziz Dutsen Tanshi, has passed away after a prolonged illness.
Tanshi, a Bauchi-based Islamic cleric, who is the Chief Imam of Dutsen Tanshi Jummaat Mosque, passed away in Bauchi after returning from India for treatment.
Despite his long battle with illness, he remained dedicated to his scholarly work.
One of the scholar’s close disciples, Abdulhakeem Shaaban Baban Keke, confirmed the scholar’s death in an interview with LEADERSHIP on Thursday night.
He stated that the cleric breathed his last in Bauchi, shortly after returning from medical treatment abroad.
Tanshi was widely respected for his unwavering commitment to the Sunnah and his staunch opposition to innovations or novelties introduced into religious matters that lack a basis in the Quran or the Sunnah called Bid’ah.
His deep knowledge of Islam and efforts in promoting pure monotheism earned him the title “Dr. Tauhidi” among his followers.
Tanshi’s teachings, which were often delivered with clarity and conviction, shaped the understanding of Islam for many across Nigeria and beyond.
LEADERSHIP reports that due to his illness, the Sheikh Abdul’aziz was unable to deliver sermons during the previous Ramadan and could not lead this year’s Eid prayers, an absence that was deeply felt by his followers.
The deceased cleric was an outspoken advocate for Islamic education and reform as he urged Muslims to return to the authentic teachings of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
He established several schools and Islamic institutions aimed at nurturing generations of scholars and imams.
His Friday sermons and lectures were widely followed, both in person and online, influencing countless Muslims across West Africa.
