Former Minister of Defence and elder statesman, Lieutenant General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd), has revealed that his health is rapidly declining, describing himself as “a sick old man” during a public appearance at his turbaning ceremony in Ganye, Adamawa State.
The retired general made the statement on Saturday after he was honoured as the Gang Paan Gany by the traditional ruler of Ganye, His Royal Highness Alhaji Adamu Sanda.
“Time is running out for me rapidly, as you can see. I’m a sick old man,” Danjuma said, drawing attention to his visibly frail state. Despite his condition, he used the occasion to make a strong call for national unity and urged Nigerians, especially those in Adamawa, to remain loyal to their leaders.
He stressed that unity and loyalty are crucial for Nigeria’s peace, economic growth, and political stability. “Adamawa people, I plead with you to be loyal to your leaders and Nigeria at large. That is the only way to achieve peace and development,” he said.
Danjuma also commended traditional rulers for their efforts in promoting peace and resolving conflicts at the grassroots level.
The event, which also marked the silver jubilee of the Gangwari Ganye’s 25 years on the throne, attracted dignitaries from across the country. Vice President Kashim Shettima was represented by the Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari, who praised traditional leaders as “bridge-builders” in Nigeria’s fragile unity.
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State described the celebration as “a festival of wisdom,” acknowledging the strong role traditional rulers have played in maintaining peace and boosting agriculture in the region.
“Your reign has brought stability and growth to our people,” Fintiri told the monarch.
In his own remarks, the Gangwari Ganye, HRH Adamu Sanda, reaffirmed the traditional institution’s commitment to national development. He emphasized the need for traditional rulers to be more involved in governance beyond their current advisory roles.
“We are the first line of response in times of crisis,” he said, calling for stronger recognition and inclusion in national decision-making.
The ceremony served not only to honour the monarch but also became a platform for calls to strengthen peace, unity, and governance across Nigeria.
