Katsina State was thrown into mourning on Monday following the sudden death of the Chairman of Bakori Local Government Area, Hon. Aminu Dan Hamidu, just weeks after assuming office.
Hamidu, who officially took office in April 2025 after winning the February local government elections, died on Monday, June 9, 2025. Although the cause of death has not been officially confirmed, sources close to the family say he had been battling an undisclosed illness for some time.
The news was confirmed by Kaula Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda. In a statement released shortly after the announcement, Governor Radda expressed deep sorrow and described the late chairman as a devoted public servant and loyal member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Today, Katsina has lost one of its most committed and selfless sons,” the governor said. “Hon. Hamidu was a quiet achiever who believed in the values of integrity, transparency, and people-first leadership.”
Though his time in office was short, Governor Radda said Hamidu made a mark as a leader who was focused on genuine service to the people of Bakori.
“Even in a short period, he showed what leadership could mean when rooted in sincerity,” the statement read. “He was not someone who sought the spotlight. He let his work speak for him.”
Hamidu, who had a background in the civil service, was widely regarded as a grassroots politician who stayed connected to his community. Supporters described him as humble, disciplined, and always ready to listen to the concerns of the people.
According to locals in Bakori, the late chairman had already initiated several development projects and community meetings to address key issues such as youth employment, security, and access to health care before his sudden death.
Following the news of his death, tributes have continued to pour in from political leaders, residents, and party members across the state. Many described his passing as not just a loss to Bakori but to Katsina as a whole.
Governor Radda extended his condolences to Hamidu’s family, the people of Bakori, and the APC family in Katsina.
“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannatul Firdausi,” he prayed. “We will continue to remember him for his modesty, his dedication, and the love he had for his people.”
The passing of Hon. Hamidu comes at a time when local governments in Katsina and other parts of Nigeria are under pressure to deliver meaningful change at the grassroots. With growing concerns over insecurity, youth unemployment, and infrastructure gaps, local government leaders have been expected to play stronger roles in governance.
Hamidu’s sudden death is not just a personal tragedy for his family, but a major loss for a community that had high hopes for new and energetic leadership.
As the state government begins the process of determining how to fill the leadership vacuum in Bakori, many residents hope that Hamidu’s vision and passion for service will be carried forward.
Meanwhile, flags are expected to fly at half-mast in Bakori in honour of the late chairman, and funeral arrangements are being coordinated in line with Islamic traditions.
