The family of Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, is grappling with an unimaginable double tragedy as his eldest son, Abdulwahab Umar Namadi, was killed in a car crash just 24 hours after the death of his mother, Hajiya Maryam Namadi.
Abdulwahab, a promising young man in his twenties, died on Wednesday while traveling with friends from Kafin Hausa to Dutse. Eyewitnesses recount that the vehicle lost control and somersaulted multiple times before coming to a stop. While his friends survived with injuries and are receiving treatment at Dutse General Hospital, Abdulwahab was pronounced dead at the scene.
“This is a devastating period for the Namadi family,” said a close family friend, Alhaji Musa Ibrahim. “Losing two cherished members within a single day is a tragedy too heavy to bear.”
A String of Misfortunes
The death of Abdulwahab came on the heels of the family mourning Hajiya Maryam, the governor’s mother, who passed away on Tuesday. Hajiya Maryam, affectionately known in the community as a pillar of support, was laid to rest the same day in a solemn ceremony at Kafin Hausa.
Governor Namadi, who had been visibly shaken during his mother’s burial, expressed his grief and faith during his son’s funeral. Speaking briefly to those who gathered at the burial in Kafin Hausa Central Mosque, he said, “This is the will of Allah. We submit to His decisions and ask for His guidance and strength.”
The Governor’s Son: A Life Cut Short
Abdulwahab was widely regarded as a humble and well-mannered young man with a bright future. He had recently completed his studies and was preparing to take on greater responsibilities within the family and community.
“He was not just the governor’s son; he was a respectful, grounded individual who earned the admiration of everyone around him,” said Ibrahim.
Residents of Dutse and Kafin Hausa have poured into the governor’s residence to pay their respects. Among them was a group of students from Abdulwahab’s alma mater who described him as “a role model with a generous spirit.”
Community Mourns the Loss
The tragic news has plunged Jigawa State into mourning, with public officials, traditional leaders, and religious figures expressing their condolences.
In a statement issued by Jigawa State Information Commissioner Malam Sagir Musa, the government extended its support to the grieving family.
“This is a painful moment for all of us. Abdulwahab’s death, coming so soon after the loss of the governor’s mother, has deeply saddened the entire state. We pray that Allah grants both of them Aljannah Firdaus and gives the family the strength to bear this loss,” the statement read.
The funeral prayers for Abdulwahab were attended by top dignitaries, including members of the state executive council, traditional rulers, and community leaders.
Friends Injured but Stable
While Abdulwahab lost his life, his friends survived with injuries that required urgent medical attention. Hospital officials at Dutse General Hospital confirmed that they were in stable condition and responding to treatment. However, one of the survivors is reportedly in critical condition, undergoing intensive care.
Eyewitnesses said that the car’s high speed might have contributed to the accident. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has launched an investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the crash.
A Time for Unity and Prayer
Governor Namadi, who has served as a unifying figure in Jigawa State, has received an outpouring of support from across the nation. Political leaders, including state governors and federal officials, have sent messages of condolence.
“This is a period that calls for collective prayers and patience,” said Alhaji Isa Madaki, a prominent community elder. “The governor has always been there for the people of Jigawa, and now it’s our turn to stand by him during this trial.”
Religious leaders have also joined the call for prayers. The Chief Imam of Kafin Hausa, Mallam Usman Salisu, urged mourners to reflect on the unpredictability of life and the importance of faith in challenging times.
“In moments like these, we are reminded of the fleeting nature of life and the need to prepare for the hereafter,” the Imam said during the funeral service.
Tributes to the Departed
Tributes to both Hajiya Maryam and Abdulwahab have flooded social media, with Nigerians expressing their shock and sorrow.
“This is heartbreaking,” wrote one user. “May Allah console the governor and his family. No parent should have to bury their child.”
Hajiya Maryam, described as a matriarch who devoted her life to family and charity, has left an indelible mark on the community. Her death at an advanced age was initially seen as a natural but significant loss until the shocking demise of her grandson doubled the grief.
Abdulwahab’s death, however, has struck a particularly emotional chord due to his youth and potential.
