By BANNERNEWS Reporter
Activities marking the 50th anniversary of the death of former Nigerian Head of State, Gen. Murtala Ramat Muhammed, were held on Friday in Kano State, with prayers offered for the repose of his soul.
Family members, Islamic clerics and other dignitaries converged on Masallacin Murtala, Hausawa, Zoo Road, for special prayers organised by the Muhammed family in collaboration with the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF).
The programme featured Qur’anic recitations and supplications, with the Chief Imam of the mosque, Sheikh Kabir Badamasi-Dantaura, leading the Juma’at prayers and graveside observance in honour of the late leader.
Speaking at the event, a son of the former Head of State, Malam Risqua Murtala Ramat, said the 50th anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on his father’s legacy and core values.
He said the remembrance was also meant to encourage Nigerians to continue celebrating the sacrifices of past leaders who played key roles in nation-building.
“Fifty years after his death, he is still remembered for his service to the nation. Present and future generations must understand the sacrifices made by leaders who built this country,” he said.
Also speaking, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Aminu Bashir Wali, described Gen. Muhammed as a leader of rare conviction, recalling his personal encounters with him and the aftermath of his assassination in Lagos in 1976.
According to Wali, the late Head of State lived a modest life and died without amassing wealth, noting that his commitment to national service and integrity remained unmatched.
In his remarks, the Sarkin Fadan Kano and Hakimin Fagge, Alhaji Ado Kurawa, a cousin of the late general, urged Muslims, particularly in Northern Nigeria, to continue praying for him, calling for regular recitation of Suratul Ikhlas in his memory.
An independent researcher, Ibrahim Ado Kurawa, said despite spending only about 200 days in office, Gen. Muhammed left enduring legacies, including the creation of additional states, initiating the relocation of the Federal Capital from Lagos to Abuja, and laying the groundwork for the presidential system of government.
