A Monumental Loss: Eulogizing The Life and Legacy Of Hajiya Dada Musa Yar’Adua

A Monumental Loss: Eulogizing The Life and Legacy Of Hajiya Dada Musa Yar’Adua

As I was returning home after offering condolences and attending the special meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna, the devastating news reached me of yet another profound loss, the passing of Hajiya Habiba Dada Musa ‘Yaradua. Given my close relationship with one of her sons, my dear friend and brother, a quintessential gentleman, Distinguished Senator Abdulaziz Musa ‘Yaradua (Audu Soja), Matawallen Katsina, I knew I had to return to Katsina to stand by him during this difficult time.

As I was making preparations to depart for Katsina, a call came through from His Excellency, Lt Gen T.Y. Buratai (rtd) CFR, Betara of Biu and Garkuwan Keffi, former Chief of Army Staff, requesting that I accompany him to Katsina for the condolence visit. It was indeed a welcomed privilege and a great opportunity. I therefore waited for him in Kaduna, and the next day, despite a heavy downpour, we made our way to the ancient city of Katsina. By the grace of Almighty Allah, the rains ceased upon our arrival, allowing us to visit and express our heartfelt condolences to the Distinguished Senator and the entire ‘Yaradua family at their family home.

The passing of Hajiya Habiba Dada Musa ‘Yaradua is indeed a monumental loss, not just to her family, but to all who were fortunate enough to have known her. As the matriarch of a family that has significantly shaped Nigeria’s history, her contributions to national development and humanity were unquantifiable. She was the revered mother of the late Major General Shehu Musa ‘Yaradua, a former Chief of Staff, at Supreme Headquarters, and the deputy to the then head of state (General Obasanjo), the late President Umaru Musa ‘Yaradua, as well as Senator Abdulaziz Musa ‘Yaradua, notable children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, among others.

Indeed, the late Hajiya Dada lived an exemplary life, marked by humility, strength, and a deep commitment to the betterment of those around her. She instilled in her children values of integrity, service, and leadership, which they have carried forward in their respective roles. Undoubtedly, her legacy is one of profound influence, having nurtured leaders who have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history.

While we mourn her passing, we take solace in the knowledge that Allah gives and takes life, and that she lived a life of purpose and left behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. I therefore pray that Allah, in His infinite mercy, forgives her shortcomings and grants her Al Jannah Firdausi. May He also bestow upon the ‘Yaradua family the strength and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.

Once again, our sincere condolences, Matawallen Katsina.

Former Army spokesperson, SK Usman writes.