Gov Sule, ex- Bauchi Gov Mu’azu, Monarchs Mourn Sen. Wadada’s Mother at 75
By Francis Nansak, Lafia
Keffi, the hometown of Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, was enveloped in grief on Thursday following the death of Hajiya Aisha Soda Danyaya at the age of 75.
In accordance with Islamic injunctions, the deceased, described as a devout and disciplined Muslim, was laid to rest the same day at about 2:30 p.m.
Shortly after the burial, sympathisers from across the state and beyond thronged Keffi to commiserate with the Danyaya family, turning the town into a hub of condolence visits.
Governor Abdullahi Sule led a high-powered delegation to condole with Senator Wadada, the Keffi Emirate Council, and the people of the area over the loss.
Other prominent figures who paid tribute included former Bauchi State Governor, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu; former Chief of Army Staff and Minister, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (Rtd); and traditional rulers from across Nasarawa State, led by the Chairman of the Nasarawa State Traditional Rulers Council, Justice Mohammed Sidi Bage.
He was accompanied by the Andoma of Doma, Alhaji Amadu Ogah.
In his condolence message, Governor Sule expressed deep sympathy with Senator Wadada and his family over the passing of his stepmother, praying Almighty Allah to forgive her shortcomings and grant her eternal rest in Aljannah Firdaus.
The governor, who was accompanied by the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barr. Sam Ode, also prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family in their moment of grief.
Similarly, the Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, Justice Sidi Bage, in a message delivered through the Andoma of Doma, described the death as a great loss not only to the Danyaya family but also to the people of Keffi. He prayed for Allah’s mercy on the deceased and guidance for the family she left behind.
Former Governor Adamu Mu’azu, in his tribute, recalled his longstanding relationship with the family, noting that he shared a close bond with the late matriarch and her husband during their lifetime. He prayed Allah to forgive her sins and admit her into Aljannah Firdaus.
Responding on behalf of the family, Senator Wadada expressed profound appreciation to the governor, traditional rulers, political associates, and other dignitaries for their support and solidarity.
He noted that their presence underscored the longstanding relationship they shared with the family even before the demise of his parents.
“I must say without any contradiction that your presence here today is not just a condolence visit but a demonstration of enduring relationships that predate the passing of our parents,” he said.
He assured that the family would continue to uphold the values of discipline and respect instilled in them, while remaining loyal to constituted authorities.
A family member, Halilu Danyaya, disclosed that the late Hajiya Aisha Soda Danyaya was the third wife of Alhaji Danyaya.
He described her as a disciplined woman and caregiver who engaged in petty trading, noting that she played a pivotal role in maintaining communication within the family due to her tact and charisma.
“She was a pillar in the home and a bridge between the children and our father.
Her wisdom and approach endeared her to everyone,” he said.