Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has received with heavy hearts the news of the demise of a remarkable Elder Statesman and renowned Educationist, Alhaji Muhammadu Aliyu (Santurakin Yamaltu), who passed away on Sunday in Abuja.
Reacting to the sad event, Governor Inuwa Yahaya said, “Today, we mourn the loss of a distinguished personality, a renowned educationist, a respected leader, and a cherished father figure whose legacy will forever remain etched in our hearts.”
He also remarked, “The late Alhaji Muhammadu Aliyu’s life was a shining example of dignity, integrity, and selflessness. As an educationist, he dedicated himself to building a brighter future for generations to come.”
“The contributions he made to education were profound, and his philanthropic endeavors touched countless lives, providing hope and opportunity to those in need, as evidenced by the Islamiyya schools he established, which continue to serve our communities,” the Governor added.
Inuwa Yahaya described the death of the nonagenarian as a great loss, not only for Gombe State but for the nation at large.
According to him, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Honorable Commissioner of Trade, Industry, and Tourism, Alhaji Nasiru Muhammad Aliyu, MNI (Magajin Garin Gwani), and his siblings, including Major General Abdulrashid Muhammad Aliyu RTD (Sarkin Kudun Gombe); President of ZAVATI Group, Alhaji Abdulrahman Muhammad Aliyu (Majen Gombe), and other members of the bereaved family.”
The Governor urged all members of the Muhammadu Aliyu’s family to take solace in the knowledge that their late father’s legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the disciplined children he left behind.
He also prayed that his memory would continue to inspire them to strive for the excellence and compassion that he exemplified.
The Governor prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased and reward his good deeds with Aljannat Firdaus.
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Born in 1930 in Gombe, Alhaji Muhammadu Aliyu’s educational journey took him from Gombe Elementary School to Teachers College Toro.
He furthered his studies at the University of Bristol, UK, where he obtained a Diploma in Primary Education, and later at the University of Cardiff, Wales, where he earned a Degree in Education Administration.
Throughout his career, he served in various capacities, including as Headmaster in several schools and as Inspector of Education in the old North-Eastern state and the defunct Bauchi State.
Alhaji Aliyu was a Permanent Member of the old Bauchi State Primary Education Board and later played a significant role in the early management of the Gombe State Civil Service Commission following the state’s creation in 1996.
His commitment to public service and dedication to the advancement of education earned him respect and admiration throughout his career and beyond.
As announced by the family, the funeral prayer (Janazah) for the deceased elder statesman will take place tomorrow, Monday, at 4:30 pm at the Emir’s Palace, Gombe, as contained in a statement by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General.