BY: AMINU SALISU, KANO
The Rundunar Kishin Kano (RKK), in collaboration with Bayero University Kano (BUK), on Monday organised a memorial symposium and book launch to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the death of Nigeria’s former Head of State, Murtala Ramat Mohammed.
The event, held at the Convocation Hall of Bayero University Kano, attracted prominent public figures, academics, students and community leaders from across the country who gathered to honour the late leader’s legacy.
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University Kano, Professor Haruna Musa, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management), Professor Aliyu Mu’azu commended the organisers for creating a platform to reflect on the life and contributions of the late General.
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Speaking on the essence of the occasion, the National Coordinator and Chairman of RKK/KPF, Major General Ibrahim Sani (rtd), said the symposium was not only to remember the slain leader but also to preserve history and promote patriotism among the younger generation.
According to him, Murtala’s life of discipline, courage and commitment to national development remains a model for Nigerian youths.
Also speaking at the event, the Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, (Kauran Bauchi), who was represented by his deputy, described the late General as a humble and visionary leader whose zeal for national progress distinguished him in Nigeria’s history.
The highlight of the event was the launch of a book authored by the late General’s sister, Hajiya Balaraba Ramat Yakubu The book chronicles Murtala’s life from his childhood to his assassination in 1976.
Hajiya Balaraba explained that she was motivated to write the book in response to longstanding controversies and debates questioning whether her late brother was truly an indigene of Kano.
She said the publication aims to set the record straight and document his roots and legacy for future generations.
The book was formally launched by the Bauchi State Governor, while it was reviewed by renowned scholar, Professor Abdalla Uba Adamu of Bayero University Kano.
In his closing remarks before the final prayer, Major General Ibrahim Sani (rtd) reiterated the importance of patriotism, discipline and a strong sense of responsibility, especially among students who attended the event.
Dignitaries who purchased copies of the book at the launch included the Vice President of the Barewa Old Boys Association and Sarkin Shanun Kano, Dr. Dankade, Alhaji Tijjani Sule Garo, among other notable personalities.
The event concluded with prayers for the repose of the late General’s soul and renewed calls for unity and national development in line with his ideals.