Greater Accra Regional Dagbomba Chief Sheikh Chief Abdul Kadir Tahir dies

Tijjaniya Muslims Movement mourns The Tijjaniya Muslims Movement of Ghana has announced the death of Sheikh Chief Abdul Kadir Tahir, the Greater Accra Regional Chief of the Dagbomba and a prominent figure within Ghana’s Muslim community.

Sheikh Tahir died on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra, according to the National Executive Council of the Tijjaniya Muslims Movement.

Until his death, he served as President of the National Council of Zango Chiefs in Ghana, Greater Accra Regional Chairman of the Council and Special Advisor to the National Chief Imam, His Eminence Sheikh Dr. Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu.

In a statement signed by Alhaji Khuzaima Mohammed Osman, National Executive Secretary of the Tijjaniya Muslims Movement of Ghana, Sheikh Tahir was described as a pioneer and loyal servant of the Tijjaniya Sufi Order.

The statement said he was recognised as one of the senior representatives and grand successors (Khulafaa) of Sheikh Al-Islam Ibrahim Niass in Ghana and served on the executive council of the Tijjaniya Muslim Movement.

It further highlighted his longstanding association with the Niass family and the global Ahlu Bait, describing his devotion to the family as an important part of his spiritual life.

According to the statement, Sheikh Tahir considered his service to Sheikh Ibrahim Niass more significant than any traditional or political recognition he received.

His humility was also highlighted, with the statement recounting that he would stand to show respect whenever a member of the Niass family appeared, even when he was dressed in traditional royal regalia and seated in public.

The late Sheikh was also described as a strong advocate for unity within the Sufi brotherhood and a consistent supporter of Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu as the lead successor and Khalifa of Sheikh Ibrahim Niass in Ghana.

The National Chief Imam, upon receiving news of Sheikh Tahir’s death, expressed grief over the loss and described him as a dear and loyal friend as well as a trusted adviser.

Beyond his religious and traditional roles, Sheikh Tahir was remembered for his philanthropic activities, particularly his support for vulnerable groups.

The Tijjaniya Muslims Movement said he assisted orphans, the homeless, underprivileged students, the destitute and fatherless children and served as a patron to more than 10 non-governmental organisations in Ghana and abroad.

His activities also took him outside Ghana, including trips with the National Chief Imam to the United Kingdom, United States, Senegal, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

The statement said Sheikh Tahir leaves behind multiple wives, more than 20 children, more than 40 grandchildren and more than 20 great-grandchildren living in different parts of the world.

He was laid to rest in accordance with Islamic tradition, while the final funeral rites, known as Adua, and other arrangements are expected to be announced later.

The Tijjaniya Muslims Movement prayed for Allah's forgiveness and mercy for the deceased and asked for an elevated station for him in Jannatul Firdaus.

"Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'oon (To Allah we belong, and to Him shall we return)."