By JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON
The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, led a delegation of government officials to Katsina State to offer condolences to the Yar’adua family following the recent passing of their matriarch, Hajiya Binta (commonly known as Dada), three days ago.
In a statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, governor Yusuf described the late Hajiya Binta as a virtuous woman, a devoted wife, and a disciplined mother who mentored many individuals, even those beyond her own children, who have gone on to achieve great success.
“We are here in Katsina to extend our condolences to the Yar’adua family and, by extension, the Government of Katsina State, on the loss of our mother and grandmother, Hajiya Dada—a pious and devout woman.
“The large turnout of dignitaries visiting Katsina to offer their condolences is a clear testament to the respect and admiration the deceased and her family command, both within and outside the country.
“On behalf of the government and the people of Kano State, I extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved family. May Allah SWT, the Most Exalted, grant her soul eternal rest and give the family the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss,” Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf prayed.
Responding on behalf of the family, Senator Colonel (rtd) Abdul Aziz Musa Yar’adua expressed gratitude to the governor and his entourage for their visit and support during this difficult time.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf also paid a courtesy visit to Governor Umar Dikko Radda of Katsina State at the Muhammadu Buhari Government House, Katsina.
The late Hajiya Binta was the widow of the late Alhaji Musa Yar’adua, a former Minister of Lagos during the Second Republic, and the mother of the former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’adua, as well as the former Chief of General Staff, the late Alhaji Shehu Musa Yar’adua.
She passed away last Monday at the age of 102 and is survived by four children, grandchildren, and numerous relatives.