Renowned Zaria Islamic Scholar Sheikh Khalifa Usman Idris Dies After Prolonged Illness

Sheikh Khalifa Usman Idris, popularly known as Rigi-Rigi, a respected Islamic scholar from Zaria, has passed away following a prolonged illness.

The cleric’s death was confirmed by his son-in-law, Abubakar Ɗanyaro, who stated that Sheikh Rigi-Rigi died on Sunday night at a private hospital in Kaduna. He had previously been admitted to the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital before being transferred to a private facility in Barnawa, where he eventually passed away.

Funeral prayers are scheduled to take place on Monday, following the Asr prayer at the scholar’s residence in the Kusfa area of Zaria.

Sheikh Khalifa Usman Idris, also known as Sheikh Usman Kusfah Rigi-Rigi, was widely admired for his profound knowledge of Islam and his lifelong commitment to teaching and preaching.

He gained widespread recognition not only within northern Nigeria but also on social media, where videos of his sermons, often delivered with a humorous and engaging style, attracted a broad following.

His teachings and personality left a lasting impact on students, followers, and the wider Muslim community, earning him a reputation as one of the most beloved scholars of his generation.