On Friday, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq paid a condolence visit to Shonga in Edu Local Government Area, where he met with the Emir, Dr. Haliru Yahaya Ndanusa, and residents of the community. The governor expressed his heartfelt sympathy over the loss of Alhaji Abubakar Ndakene, a respected figure in the Emirate. During the visit, Governor AbdulRazaq acknowledged Ndakene’s contributions to the community and extended his prayers for comfort and strength to the bereaved family and the entire Shonga Emirate.
According to a press statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye it states that Alhaji Abubakar Ndakene, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Marafan Shonga, has passed away, leaving a deep void in the Shonga Emirate. Known for his leadership and dedication to the community, Ndakene’s death was met with widespread sorrow. The Kwara State Government had earlier issued a heartfelt condolence message, acknowledging his significant contributions both as a political figure and a community leader. His passing marks the end of an era for many who admired his steadfast service and commitment to Shonga and beyond.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq praised the late Alhaji Abubakar Ndakene for his remarkable role in the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2019 and 2023 general elections in Kwara State. Recognizing Ndakene’s strategic contributions, AbdulRazaq highlighted how the late chieftain’s dedication and leadership were instrumental in strengthening the party’s presence and ensuring its victories. Ndakene’s legacy, marked by political acumen and unwavering commitment, will be remembered as a pillar of support for the APC and a source of inspiration for many.
“It is with heavy hearts that we are here today to commiserate with Your Royal Highness over the demise of the Marafan Shonga. May Allaah grant him Al-jannah Firdaus,” he said.
“Alhaji Ndakene dedicated his life to the well-being of his community, the state, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria as a whole.
“We also know his impacts at the National Population Commission and his wonderful contributions to our own party, APC. Our victory in the 2019 and general elections 2023 (especially in the Kwara North) might not have been possible without his major contributions.
“His legacies live on, and the youth should also emulate the kind of life he lived and see him as a shining example to follow.”
Emir of Shonga, Dr. Haliru Yahaya Ndanusa expressed deep gratitude to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his heartfelt visit and compassionate support during this difficult time. He thanked the governor for not only offering his condolences in person but also for the generous donation made to the family of the late Alhaji Abubakar Ndakene. Dr. Haliru emphasized that the governor’s gesture reflected a spirit of solidarity and care, providing comfort to the bereaved and reinforcing the bond between the leadership and the community.
Dr. Haliru Yahaya Ndanusa also lauded Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his commitment to the progress of Shonga, noting the recent approval of an ICT center and other key development projects for the community. He highlighted these initiatives as vital steps towards enhancing educational opportunities and improving the quality of life for residents. The Emir praised the governor’s vision and efforts to bring lasting growth and modern infrastructure to Shonga, expressing hope that these projects would empower the youth and drive further development in the area.
“We thank you very much for honouring us this afternoon with your presence and the entourage. May Allaah accept your prayers for the Marafan Shonga. He has done his best for the community in his lifetime, and everyone in the community appreciates what he has done,” the monarch said.
“During the last (Local Government) election, we decided to vote for you (APC) en masse based on your performance in the last five years. Check the record. That’s a show of confidence from our people here. And we thank you very much for making us proud.”
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq also visited the palace of the Emir of Tsaragi, Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi, to offer his condolences following the loss of the Emir’s cousin, Alhaji Ahmed Baba Sha’aba. A former Controller of Immigration for the Gombe State Command, Sha’aba’s passing was a significant loss to the community. During the visit, the governor expressed his sympathy, acknowledging Sha’aba’s service and contributions, and shared words of comfort with the grieving Emir and his family.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq offered prayers for the late Alhaji Ahmed Baba Sha’aba, asking God to grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. He spoke of Sha’aba’s admirable qualities and dedicated service, expressing hope that his legacy would be remembered fondly. The governor’s prayers were a heartfelt appeal for divine peace and comfort for the departed, as well as strength and solace for the bereaved family.
