Katsina State is mourning the loss of a revered matriarch, Hajiya Safara’u Umaru Baribari, the cherished mother of the Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda. The announcement of her passing was made with profound grief by the Government of Katsina State.

Hajiya Safara’u, who graced this world for 93 years, passed away last night. Known for her resilience, grace, and a lifetime of wisdom, she was a beacon of strength and inspiration to her family and the community at large. Her life’s journey was marked by her profound impact, not just as a mother but as a nurturer of values and leaders.

Her contributions extended beyond being the mother of Governor Radda. Hajiya Safara’u raised a generation of influential figures, including the Village Head of Radda, Alhaji Kabir Umar Radda, and Hajiya Hauwa Umar Radda, the former wife of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’adua. Her lineage and influence reflect her role as a true Fulani matriarch, embodying values of integrity, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to community service.

Her passing has left an irreplaceable void, but her legacy endures through the lives she touched and the values she instilled in her children and community members. Hajiya Safara’u’s contributions to fostering community development and her embodiment of cherished principles will continue to inspire generations to come.

The state has announced that the late matriarch will be laid to rest today at 4:00 PM in her hometown, Radda Village, in accordance with Islamic rites. Her burial is expected to be attended by her family, close friends, and well-wishers from across the state, who will gather to pay their final respects.

Expressing condolences, Ibrahim Kaula Muhammad, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, issued a heartfelt statement: “We offer our deepest condolences and pray that Allah grants Hajiya Safara’u eternal peace in Jannatul Firdaus.” The statement further highlighted her remarkable contributions and the deep sense of loss felt by the Governor, his family, and the entire state.

As the community gathers to bid farewell to this remarkable woman, Hajiya Safara’u will be remembered not only for her role as a mother and matriarch but also as a symbol of wisdom, strength, and service. Her life and legacy will remain a guiding light for those she leaves behind.

Hon. Sagir Abba, an aspirant for the Fagge Federal Constituency under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming elections, has distributed ₦15 million to former councillors, party elders, youths, and women in Fagge Local Government Area as part of his Ramadan outreach.

During the distribution in Fagge, 1,000 youths received ₦10,000 each, while 50 women from each of the ten political wards—totaling 500 beneficiaries—were given ₦10,000 and a wrapper. Former councillors who served between 2014 and 2021, along with party elders, received ₦30,000 each.

“This gesture is a token of my commitment to bringing the dividends of democracy to the people of Fagge. Ramadan is a time for compassion and sharing, and I am happy to support our youths, women, and elders in this blessed month,” Hon. Sagir Abba said.

Alhaji Musa Danjuma, one of the party elders, said, “Hon. Sagir has once again demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of our people. This assistance will go a long way, especially during Ramadan.”

Aisha Sani, one of the women who received cash and a wrapper, said, “This support means a lot to us. It will help us take care of our families during this holy month.”

The event was attended by community leaders, APC stakeholders, and beneficiaries.

Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has broken his silence over the political crisis in Rivers State, expressing deep concern over the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officials, stating that such actions tarnish Nigeria’s global reputation.

Jonathan made these remarks while speaking as the chairman at the Haske Satumari Foundation Colloquium in Abuja on Saturday.

Jonathan criticized the removal of elected officials, emphasizing that these actions by key figures in the executive and legislative branches present Nigeria in a negative light.

He noted that while former presidents typically refrain from commenting on national issues to avoid inflaming political tensions, he felt compelled to speak out due to mounting calls from Nigerians urging him to address the situation.

The former president underscored the importance of maintaining the integrity of governance institutions, warning that undue influence over the judiciary erodes public confidence in the legal system.

He also highlighted how Nigeria’s international image and investment climate are directly impacted by the conduct of its governmental arms.

Meanwhile, on the same day, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) voiced support for President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. NNPP National Chairman, Dr. Agbo Major, defended Tinubu’s decision, arguing that no responsible government would allow a worsening crisis to go unchecked.

Major stated that President Tinubu, as Nigeria’s Chief Security Officer, had access to intelligence that might not be publicly available. He suggested that without intervention, the situation in Rivers could have escalated further, posing significant security threats.

He also criticized some political leaders who, instead of promoting peace, allowed the crisis to deteriorate before stepping in with belated interventions and criticisms