Late Captain Yusuf-Gobir of Ilorin Emirate
By AbdurRaheem Sa’ad Dembo
Death is an inevitable transaction that arrives at its appointed time for those whose time has come. On Saturday, October 12, 2024, it was the turn of the esteemed Sarkin Gobir of Ilorin, Captain Muhammad Ahmad Yusuf-Gobir.
The news of his passing was announced by the Chief Press Secretary to the Kwara State Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye. There is no doubt that he was not only an astute family man but also a great community leader whose contributions will be deeply missed.
As a traditional title holder in the rich cultural milieu of the Ilorin Emirate, many prominent figures from the Emirate and beyond have paid tribute to the late Sarkin Gobir.
In a condolence message issued by his spokesman, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu Gambari CFR, the Emir of Ilorin described the late Sarkin Gobir as a gentle and loyal traditional chief.
He noted that the deceased leveraged his wealth of experience to unite the people within his domain and beyond. The Emir prayed for Allah’s forgiveness of his shortcomings, acceptance of his good deeds, and eternal rest in aljannah firdaus.
Echoing these sentiments, Kwara State Governor Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq lamented Sarkin Gobir’s death as a personal loss.
He emphasized their longstanding friendship, recalling how the late chief made an impressive impact as an administrator, particularly in leading a remarkable turnaround at the Ilorin International Aviation College. In his heartfelt tribute, the Governor implored Allah to grant Sarkin Gobir al-jannah Firdaus and to support his family with strength and grace.
Similarly, the Turaki of Ilorin and Senator representing Kwara Central in the 10th Senate, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Sarkin Gobir, emphasizing the lasting impact of his contributions to both the community and the aviation industry. He offered prayers for strength and fortitude for the bereaved family during this trying time.
Honourable Yinka Aluko, representing the Ilorin East/South Federal Constituency, expressed his sadness over Sarkin Gobir’s passing, describing the late chief as a patriotic,
God-fearing, and disciplined individual. Aluko extended his condolences to the Emir, the Governor, and the people of Kwara State, praying for divine mercy for the departed soul and for endurance for the family.
In her statement, Hajiya Arinola Lawal, a member of the Kwara State House of Assembly representing Ilorin East, expressed her heartfelt grief over the passing of Captain Muhammad Ahmad Yusuf-Gobir.
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She remarked on his transformative leadership at the Aviation College, which flourished under his stewardship, leaving an indelible mark on the community.
The bond between Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and the late Sarkin Gobir was evident, as the Governor was present at the janaza prayer and played a key role in facilitating the transport of his remains from Kano to Ilorin. His devotion to friendship was exemplified by his actions during this difficult time.
Numerous dignitaries, including the Turaki of Ilorin, Senator Saliu Mustapha, former Minister of Interior General Abdulrahman Dambazau, and Alhaji Garuba Lawal, attended the janaza prayer and subsequent condolence visits to the family.
On October 15, 2024, during a condolence visit to the Gobir family, former Senate President Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki noted the longstanding relationship between their families, which dates back to their parents. He offered prayers for the late Sarkin Gobir, asking for Allah’s forgiveness and for his eternal rest in aljannah firdaus.
During my visit to Ilorin, I had the opportunity to speak with several family members, including Mallam Nasir Yusuf-Gobir, the immediate younger brother of the deceased, who described him as a patient and selfless personality. He highlighted his brother’s generosity, noting that Sarkin Gobir often shared his resources and aimed to unite the family in a shared vision of excellence.
Mallam Nasir emphasized that his brother worked diligently to harness the influence of their ancestry, believing that unity could restore the family’s historical grandeur. Concerns have already been raised about who might fill the void left by Sarkin Gobir, who served as a source of peace among the Gobirawa. He prayed for Allah’s mercy upon his brother’s soul.
Baba Gobir Abdullahi, the late Sarkin Gobir’s personal assistant, praised him as a unifier who resolved conflicts among the Gobirawa throughout Africa. Captain Ahmad’s efforts not only fostered unity within the family but also created enduring bonds within the community. He described the late Sarkin Gobir as an icon of righteousness, honesty, and piety.
Captain Muhammad Ahmad Yusuf-Gobir was born in 1962 and was the eldest son of the late Yusuf Amuda Gobir, a former Minister of Defence and a pioneer civil servant revered for his contributions to the development of the country, especially Kwara State and the Ilorin Emirate.
In conclusion, it is essential to acknowledge that the late Sarkin Gobir leaves behind a rich legacy, deeply embedded in the fabric of his community and beyond.
May Allah forgive him his shortcomings and grant him eternal peace in aljannah firdaus.
AbdurRaheem Sa’ad Dembo writes from Ilorin.
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