Families, friends and associates of Nigeria’s former Head of State, late General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, yesterday converged on his graveside in Kano to observe special Juma’at prayers in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of his death.
The event, organised by the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF), featured special juma’at prayers led by Sheikh Kabir Badamassi, followed by a graveside observance at Masallacin Murtala, Hausawa quarters, Kano.
Late Gen. Muhammed was assassinated on Friday, February 13, 1976, after spending about 200 days in office.
Speaking at the gathering, one of his sons, Mallam Abba Risqua, urged Nigerians to continue praying for the repose of his father’s soul and for Allah to forgive his shortcomings.
He called on the people of Kano and Nigerians at large to remain steadfast and uphold the legacies of the late leader, stressing that his sacrifices and commitment to national unity should not be forgotten.
Risqua also prayed for improved socio-economic conditions in the country.
A close ally of the late Head of State, Mallam Ado Kurawa, Sarkin Fada Fagge, described Gen. Muhammed as a leader with rare qualities, noting that he was honest, just and committed to the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
According to him, the late leader was a goal-getter who believed strongly in his judgment and stood firmly for fairness and accountability in governance.
Also speaking, a relative of the late Head of State, Ambassador Aminu Bashir Wali, said Muhammed’s legacy remained relevant decades after his death, stressing the need for Nigerians to celebrate and propagate the sacrifices of past heroes.
Wali noted that the late leader was widely known for his anti-corruption stance, integrity and commitment to justice, adding that “the labours of our heroes past must never be in vain.”
An independent researcher in Kano, Ibrahim Ado Kurawa, recalled that despite his short time in office, Gen. Muhammed introduced reforms that shaped Nigeria’s political structure.
He said the late leader created seven additional states, initiated the relocation of the Federal Capital Territory from Lagos to Abuja and laid foundations for Nigeria’s present constitutional framework.
Kurawa also credited Muhammed’s African policies with supporting Namibia’s independence and contributing to the eventual dismantling of apartheid.
