Ex-Bauchi Commissioner, Ibrahim Hamza dies in Abuja

From Ahmad Muhammad, Bauchi

A former Bauchi State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Alhaji Yakubu Ibrahim Hamza, is dead.
He died Saturday in Abuja, after a protracted illness.
He was buried Sunday in Bauchi, after a funeral prayer, which will be held at the Bauchi Emir’s Palace.
The deceased served as Commissioner of Religious affairs for about two yeaars during the second tenure of Governor Bala Mohammed.
Yakubu Hamza was dropped during a minor cabinet reshuffle, and was appointed as Special Adviser to the Governor on Higher education.
Meanwhile, Governor Bala Mohammed has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the former commissioner.
In a statement Signed by Mukhtar Gidado MniprSpecial Adviser, Media and Publicity to the Governor, said the Governor on behalf of his family, the Government, and the people of Bauchi State, expresses profound grief over the passing of elder statesman, educationist.
Bala recalled that Until his death , Alhaji Yakubu Ibrahim Hamza served diligently as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Higher Education, where he brought his vast experience, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the development of the education sector in Bauchi State.
He described late Yakubu Ibrahim Hamza as a distinguished public servant whose life was defined by integrity, humility, selfless service, and an unrelenting passion for the advancement of education.
The Governor further noted that the deceased made invaluable contributions to the growth and transformation of education in both the old Bauchi State, and the present-day Bauchi State, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.
He recalled the late elder statesman’s exemplary service in various capacities, particularly as Commissioner for Religious Affairs and later as Special Adviser on Higher and Education, where his wise counsel, deep knowledge, and dedication to public service greatly enriched government policies and programmes.
He recalled late Hamza’s significant contributions to the development of the state during his service as commissioner of religious affairs noting that he demonstrated exceptional commitment and a deep sense of responsibility in the discharge of his duties.
“Alhaji Yakubu Ibrahim Hamza was a committed patriot, a respected educationist, a mentor to many, and a bridge-builder whose contributions to the educational and moral development of our society will remain indelible.
“His death is a painful loss not only to his immediate family but also to the Government and people of Bauchi State and the nation at large,” the Governor said
The Government of Bauchi State extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and all those whose lives were touched by the remarkable service and enduring legacy of late Hamza.“A free press is indispensable to democracy. Journalism is not a crime” the statement concluded.