By Priye Briggs
The Kano State Government has sent a high-level delegation to Sokoto to commiserate with the Sultan, the Sokoto State Government, and the family of the late Sardaunan Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji.
The condolence visit on Monday was on the directive of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, according to a statement from the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa.
Leading the team was Kano State Deputy Governor, Murtala Garo. He was accompanied by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ibrahim; the Emir of Rano, Muhammad Umar; Kano APC Chairman, Umar Doguwa; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Aisha Saji; and other top government officials.
The delegation’s first stop was the home of the deceased, where they delivered the governor’s sympathies to the grieving family.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the late Sardaunan’s first son, Aminu Abubakar, thanked Governor Yusuf for identifying with them during their time of loss.
From there, the Kano team proceeded to the Sultan’s palace to present the governor’s condolence message to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.
The Sultan received them warmly and applauded the gesture, noting that it underscores the strong ties that bind Northern Nigeria.
“We appreciate Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for this thoughtful gesture. It reflects the unity and enduring brotherhood that bind the people of Northern Nigeria together,” the Sultan said.
The delegation also visited the Sokoto State Government House. They were received by the Sokoto Deputy Governor and the SSG, to whom they conveyed Yusuf’s condolences to the government and residents of the state over the passing of the revered traditional titleholder.
In his message, Governor Yusuf prayed for divine mercy and comfort for all those affected.
“We pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, grants him Aljannatul Firdaus, and gives his family, the Sultanate Council and the people of Sokoto State the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” the governor said.
Yusuf further described the late Sardaunan Sokoto as an elder statesman whose service to the Sultanate and to Northern Nigeria will remain in memory.
The visit highlights the continued cordial relationship between Kano and Sokoto, and the solidarity shared among leaders in the region during moments of grief.