Special Prayers Held for Murtala Muhammed on 50th Anniversary

On Friday, relatives, religious leaders, and dignitaries gathered in Kano to conduct special prayers in remembrance of the late former Head of State, Gen. Murtala Ramat Muhammed, marking the 50th anniversary of his death.

The event took place at Masallacin Murtala, located on Hausawa along Zoo Road in Kano, and was organized by the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF). Attendees participated in Qur’anic recitations and supplications for the soul of the deceased leader.

Sheikh Kabir Badamasi-Dantaura, the Chief Imam of the mosque, officiated the Juma’at prayer and led the prayers at the gravesite, reciting verses from the Holy Qur’an to honor the late general.

During the ceremony, Malam Risqua Murtala Ramat, a son of the deceased Head of State, expressed that the anniversary was a moment of reflection on his father's legacy and the principles he upheld.

He commented that the commemoration also serves to encourage Nigerians to recognize and honor the sacrifices made by past leaders towards nation- building.

“Fifty years after his passing, he is still recollected for his dedication to the nation. It’s essential for both current and future generations to grasp the sacrifices made by our predecessors to develop this country,” he stated.

He highlighted that Gen. Muhammed was renowned for his anti-corruption stance and commitment to values such as integrity, justice, fairness, and equity.

“Without these principles, achieving national progress would be challenging,” he added.

A former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Aminu Bashir Wali, who spoke at the event, described the late Muhammed as an exceptional leader. Wali recounted his personal experiences with him, noting that he was close to the late Head of State and witnessed the aftermath of his assassination in Lagos in 1976.

“He was a man of firm principles who did not seek material riches. He died almost without wealth. His dedication to serving the nation is unparalleled,” he remarked, praying for divine forgiveness and rest for the late leader.

Alhaji Ado Kurawa, the Sarkin Fadan Kano and Hakimin Fagge and a cousin of the late Muhammed, called on Muslims, especially those in Northern Nigeria, to continue praying for the deceased general. He urged them to recite Suratul Ikhlas daily in remembrance of his soul.

Independent researcher Ibrahim Ado Kurawa pointed out that Gen. Muhammed left lasting legacies despite spending approximately 200 days in office as Nigeria's Head of State. He cited notable achievements such as the creation of additional states, the initiation of relocating Nigeria’s Federal Capital from Lagos to Abuja, and establishing the groundwork for the presidential system of government.

“Gen. Murtala Muhammed was an advocate for good governance and fought against corruption, principles that are still significant for Nigeria’s socio- political development,” he asserted.