The Murtala Muhammed Foundation on Friday organised a special Juma’at prayer and graveside observance in Kano to mark the 50th anniversary of the death of former Head of State, Gen. Murtala Ramat Muhammed.
The prayer session was held at Masallacin Murtala, Hausawa, Zoo Road, Kano, and was attended by members of the late leader’s family, associates, government officials and other well-wishers.
Gen. Muhammed was killed in a failed coup on February 13, 1976.
The Chief Imam of the mosque, Sheikh Kabir Badamasi-Dantaura, led the prayers and recited verses from the Holy Qur’an for the repose of the late general’s soul.
Speaking at the event, a son of the late leader, Malam Risqua Murtala Ramat, said the anniversary provided an opportunity for reflection on his father’s life and service to the country.
He said the remembrance was also meant to encourage Nigerians to recognise the sacrifices of past leaders.
“Fifty years after his death, he is still remembered for his service to the nation. It is important for present and future generations to understand the sacrifices made by our past leaders to build the country,” he said.
Ramat added, “Gen. Murtala Muhammed stood for anti-corruption, integrity, honesty, fairness, justice and equity. Without these values, national progress will be difficult.”
A former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Aminu Bashir-Wali, described the late general as a leader who was deeply committed to national service.
Bashir-Wali, who said he worked closely with the former Head of State, recalled witnessing the aftermath of his assassination in Lagos.
“Murtala was a man who believed strongly in his convictions and did not pursue material wealth. He died virtually penniless. His commitment to national service remains unmatched,” he said.
He prayed for Allah’s forgiveness for the late leader and asked that he be granted eternal rest.
Also speaking, the Sarkin Fadan Kano and Hakimin Fagge, Alhaji Ado Kurawa, who is a cousin of the late general, urged Nigerians to continue praying for him.
An independent researcher, Ibrahim Ado-Kurawa, said despite spending only about 200 days in office, Gen. Muhammed left lasting legacies.
He said the former Head of State created seven additional states, initiated the relocation of the Federal Capital Territory from Lagos to Abuja, and laid the foundation for the presidential system of government.
“He championed good governance and fought corruption, values that remain relevant to Nigeria’s socio-political development,” he said.
NAN
