Vice-President Kashim Shettima has described the death of Hajiya Sutura Shehu Shagari, the last surviving wife of former President Shehu Shagari, as a significant loss to the nation.
The vice-president led a Federal Government delegation to Sokoto State on Sunday to express condolences to the Shagari family.
Reports indicate that Hajiya Sutura passed away at 3 p.m. on Monday, November 10, after battling a prolonged illness. She was 79 years old.
The late matriarch’s passing was publicly confirmed by retired Capt. Bala Shagari, eldest son of the former president.
Speaking during the condolence visit, Shettima, who was representing President Bola Tinubu, prayed for the repose of her soul and for strength and comfort for the Shagari family, the Sultanate, and the people of Sokoto.
“We are here on behalf of President Tinubu to condole with the people and government of Sokoto State, as well as the immediate family of our late President Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari, over the loss of Hajia Sutura.
“May Allah forgive her shortcomings and grant her Aljannah Firdaus. May He also provide fortitude to the family, the state, and the nation to bear this irreparable loss, ” Shettima said.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State expressed appreciation for the vice-president’s repeated gestures of solidarity, noting that Shettima has visited the state several times since the current administration began.
“This visit demonstrates genuine concern not only for the Shagari family but for the welfare of Sokoto State as a whole,” he said.
In response, Capt. Bala Shagari thanked the vice-president and the Federal Government for their compassionate gesture, calling it an honor that underscored the nation’s respect for the late Hajiya Sutura and her family.
He also expressed gratitude to the state government for its continued support.
The condolence visit was attended by several prominent figures, including the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo; former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Bello Adoke; and former Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Mukhtari Shagari, among other senior officials.
The delegation’s visit not only reflected official sympathy but also highlighted Hajiya Sutura’s enduring legacy as a respected figure in Nigeria’s history and her role in supporting the nation’s democratic and social development.
