Northern govs condole ex-INEC chair Jega over wife’s death

Governors of the 19 Northern states have commiserated with a former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Attahiru Jega, over the death of his wife, Hadiza Jega.

The condolence message was conveyed by the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya, who described the loss as painful and profound.

Hadiza was reported to have died on Sunday and was buried in accordance with Islamic rites after funeral prayers held at the National Mosque, Abuja.

In a condolence message issued on Sunday and signed by the Gombe State governor’s spokesperson, Ismaila Misilli, on behalf of the forum, Yahaya said her passing was not only a loss to the Jega family but also to all who came in contact with her life of humility and devotion.

The death of Hajiya Hadiza is a painful and profound loss not only to the immediate family but also to all who were touched by her life of grace, humility and devotion to family values,” he said.

He noted that her demise had created a vacuum in the lives of her loved ones, urging the family to take solace in the impactful life she lived.

According to him, the late Hadiza left behind a legacy of kindness, faith and compassion that would continue to inspire many.

The NSGF chairman extended sympathies to Jega, his children and the extended family, praying for strength and patience for them to bear the loss.

He also prayed for the forgiveness of the deceased’s shortcomings and for her to be granted Aljannatul Firdaus.

PUNCH Online earlier reported that Bayero University Kano also announced her death, describing it as a great loss to the academic community.

In a statement on Sunday, the institution said, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. With total submission to the will of Allah, we announce the passing of Hajiya Hadiza Attahiru Jega,” adding that her Janazah prayer was held after the Zuhr prayer at the National Mosque in Abuja.

The university prayed for her repose and for strength for the bereaved family, while its Director of Public Affairs, Lamara Garba, also confirmed that she was buried in Abuja in accordance with Islamic rites.

Jega, a respected academic and former Vice-Chancellor of the institution, has continued to receive condolences from across the country following the death of his wife.