By SUNTV Global Channel | February 2, 2026
A prominent Islamic cleric based in Zaria, Kaduna State, Sheikh Usman Idris Kusfa, popularly known as “Rigi-Rigi,” has died at the age of 57.
SUNTV Global Channel gathered that the respected cleric passed away in the early hours of Monday at a private hospital in Kaduna after battling a prolonged illness.
The death was confirmed to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) by a senior disciple of the cleric, Nasiruddeen Umar, also known as Baharu, who described the late Sheikh as a dedicated teacher and passionate propagator of Islamic teachings.
According to Umar, Sheikh Kusfa was widely known for his sermons, public lectures, and religious guidance, which focused on Islamic education, moral discipline, and community development.
In recent years, the cleric gained massive followership on TikTok and other social media platforms, where short clips of his preaching resonated strongly with youths and grassroots Muslim communities across northern Nigeria and beyond.
“Sheikh Rigi-Rigi remained consistent in da’awah and religious instruction until his final days,” Umar said.
The late cleric is survived by four wives, 37 children, and several grandchildren.
Umar also disclosed that the funeral prayer (Janazah) has been scheduled to take place later on Monday at about 4:30 p.m. in Kusfa, Zaria City.
Sheikh Kusfa was regarded by many followers as a humble, outspoken, and committed Islamic scholar whose teachings left a lasting impact both offline and in the digital space.
His death marks the end of an era for many adherents who looked up to him for religious guidance and moral inspiration.
