Hajiya Safara’u Umaru Radda, the mother of Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda, passed away on Saturday at the age of 93. Her passing elicited a wave of condolences and tributes from prominent figures across Nigeria, including President Bola Tinubu, former President Muhammadu Buhari, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, and several state governors. Hajiya Safara’u’s remains were transported from Abuja to Katsina on Sunday for burial in her home village of Radda, Charanchi Local Government Area. Dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor, members of the State Executive Council, lawmakers, and the Head of State Civil Service, received her body at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport. Governors Abba Yusuf of Kano State and Umar Namadi of Jigawa State were among those present at the burial. Governor Radda himself was performing Hajj in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, at the time of his mother’s passing.
President Tinubu, in his condolence message, described Hajiya Safara’u as a selfless woman whose legacy of integrity and community service would be remembered for generations. He acknowledged her role in nurturing leaders who have made significant contributions in various fields. Former President Buhari expressed his deepest sympathies to Governor Radda, emphasizing the irreplaceable role of a mother in a person’s life, regardless of their achievements. He offered his family’s thoughts and prayers during this difficult period, highlighting Hajiya Safara’u’s service to her community and women in particular.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also conveyed his condolences, acknowledging the profound impact of a mother’s loss. He praised Hajiya Safara’u’s life of devotion, kindness, and service, noting that her legacy of compassion and strong values would continue to inspire. The Nigeria Governors’ Forum, represented by its Chairman, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, celebrated Hajiya Safara’u’s life of service, devotion, and dignity. They extended their condolences to the Katsina State government and the bereaved family.
Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso offered his condolences, acknowledging the weight of a mother’s loss while finding solace in the impact she made during her long life. Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu expressed his sorrow, describing Hajiya Safara’u as a woman of virtue who instilled strong moral values in her children. He prayed for Allah’s forgiveness and her place in paradise. Governors Kabir Yusuf of Kano State and Umar Namadi of Jigawa State also extended their sympathies to Governor Radda.
Beyond the political sphere, the Katsina State Police Command and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Katsina also offered their condolences. The Police Command conveyed their shock and sadness, extending their thoughts and prayers to Governor Radda and his family. The NUJ Chairman, Tukur Dan-Ali, expressed sadness at Hajiya Safara’u’s passing, noting her contributions to the state’s growth and prosperity. The union prayed for her eternal rest in paradise.
Hajiya Safara’u Umaru Radda’s passing brought together leaders from across Nigeria’s political landscape in a shared expression of grief and respect. The outpouring of condolences underscored her influence and the esteem in which she was held, not only by her family but also by the wider community. The tributes painted a picture of a woman dedicated to her family, community, and faith, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. Her life served as a testament to the enduring power of maternal influence and the importance of community service. The collective mourning from across the political spectrum demonstrated the unifying power of loss and the shared respect for a life well-lived. Her memory will undoubtedly serve as a source of comfort and inspiration for her family, particularly Governor Radda, as they navigate this difficult time. The widespread recognition of her contributions serves as a fitting tribute to a woman who clearly touched many lives during her 93 years.
