Yar’Adua’s mother buried in Katsina

Hajiya Dada, the mother of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, was laid to rest on Tuesday according to Islamic rites in Katsina State.

She was buried at the Danmarna graveyard after prayers were made for the repose of her soul at the township stadium close to the Yar’Adua family house, at about 1:30 p.m.

Imam Aminu Yammawa led the prayers before her remains were carried to the graveyard for burial.

The prayer session saw several dignitaries in attendance, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the emirs of Daura and Katsina, Alhaji Farouk Umar and Alhaji Abdulmumuni Usman, respectively.

Others present were former Senate President Ahmed Lawal, Governor Dikko Radda; his deputy Lawal Farouk; and business mogul Dahiru Mangal, amongst others.

Born on January 31, 1922, the late Dada was also the mother of Shehu Yar’Adua, then Chief of Staff during Olusegun Obasanjo’s military administration, and the mother of current Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, who represents Katsina Central at the National Assembly (NASS).

Three of her daughters are married to prominent politicians, while her late husband, Musa Yar’Adua, was a former Minister of Lagos Affairs during the First Republic.

Dada, also fondly known by other names like Binta and Habiba, died at the ripe old age of 102 years on Monday evening.

During her lifetime, she hosted in her residence almost all presidential and governorship candidates in the state who sought her blessings for their political aspirations.

Some of those who visited her during the height of electioneering campaigns included former presidents Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari, and Atiku Abubakar, among others.

Several people who knew her described her as an easy-going and accommodating person, a woman who didn’t discriminate against anyone, irrespective of tribe, religion, or gender.

Shortly after her demise, her son, Senator Yar’Adua, also known as Audu Soja, issued a statement saying, “Our mother was a shining example of kindness, compassion, and piety.

“Her life was a testament to the values of hard work, dedication, and service to humanity. She was a rock to our family and a pillar of strength to our community.

“As a devout Muslim, she lived a life of unwavering faith, always seeking the pleasure of Allah (SWT). Her passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but we take comfort in the knowledge that she lived a fulfilling life and left behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity.

“I want to express my gratitude to everyone at this moment for your prayers, support, and condolences, which mean a lot to us. May Allah (SWT) grant her Jannah Firdaus and forgive her shortcomings. May He also grant us the fortitude to bear this loss.”

Governor Radda, who was earlier at the Yar’Adua family house on a condolence visit, praised the late matriarch for her exemplary life and invaluable contributions to the community.

He noted her role as a pillar of strength for the Yar’Adua family and her positive influence on Katsina State as a whole.

He offered prayers for the repose of her soul and asked Allah to grant her eternal rest. He also prayed for strength and fortitude for the family to bear this irreparable loss.

Radda urged the family to take solace in the remarkable legacy left behind by Hajiya Dada and to continue her good works in service to humanity.