Jigawa governor loses eldest son day after mother’s death

Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi has suffered a double tragedy, losing his eldest son, Abdulwahab, barely 24 hours after the death of his mother, Maryam Namadi. The 24-year-old Abdulwahab died in a motor accident on Thursday, December 26, 2024, while travelling from Kafin Hausa to Dutse with friends. Reports indicate the vehicle he was driving lost control and somersaulted, leaving Abdulwahab fatally injured and some of his friends hospitalised at Dutse General Hospital. The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Hamisu Gumel, confirmed the tragic incident and described it as a heavy blow to the governor and his family.  “With a heavy heart, Governor Umar Namadi announces the passing of his beloved son, Abdulwahab Umar Namadi,” Gumel stated. The family had just begun mourning the death of Maryam Namadi, the governor’s mother, who passed away on Wednesday following a brief illness. Abdulwahab’s burial rites were conducted on Thursday in Kafin Hausa town in line with Islamic traditions. The dual tragedies have cast a sombre shadow over Jigawa State, and political leaders and citizens have expressed condolences. Governor Namadi, already grappling with immense personal loss, now faces an extraordinarily difficult period.