The ancient city of Zaria in Kaduna State witnessed a massive gathering on Monday as hundreds of mourners arrived to pay their final respects to the renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Khalifa Usman Idris. Better known by his vibrant nickname, Sheikh Rigi-Rigi, the cleric passed away on February 1, 2026, at the age of 57 following a long battle with illness.
According to details shared with Reports by his son-in-law, Malam Abubakar Danyaro, the scholar breathed his last on Sunday night at a private medical facility in Kaduna. By Monday evening, the atmosphere at his residence in the Kusfa area of Zaria City was heavy with emotion as a sea of admirers, community leaders, and fellow scholars gathered for the funeral prayer.
Sheikh Rigi-Rigi was far from a conventional preacher. He carved a unique niche for himself through a humorous and deeply engaging teaching style that bridged the gap between traditional scholarship and modern communication. While he was an expert in the complex disciplines of Furu’a and Usul, it was his ability to break down these intricate religious concepts into relatable, entertaining lessons that won him a devoted following across West Africa.
His influence extended well beyond the walls of local mosques. In recent years, he became a digital sensation, particularly on TikTok and other social media platforms, where his sermons were widely shared and celebrated. Youths and grassroots communities were especially drawn to his straightforwardness and the fearless way he addressed sensitive topics, often earning him affectionate titles like “Rugum” and “Attalili Attaghazuti” from his followers.
The late cleric was a staunch advocate for Islamic education and the virtues of the companions of Sheikh Ibrahim Inyass. He spent a significant portion of his life dedicated to Da’awah and providing guidance to those in need within his community. His death is seen by many as a significant loss to the intellectual and spiritual fabric of the region.
Sheikh Rigi-Rigi leaves behind a large family, including four wives, 37 children, and numerous grandchildren. As the community begins to process his passing, his legacy of blending wisdom with wit remains a lasting point of reference for Islamic propagation in the digital age.
