The Sarkin Sasa, Haruna Maiyasin Katsina, has passed away at the age of 125.
Until his death, he served as the Chairman of the Council of Arewa Traditional Rulers in the 17 southern states of Nigeria.
He died on Saturday evening at his residence in the Sasa community, Ibadan, in the Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State.
A family source, who spoke with The PUNCH on Sunday morning, confirmed his passing, stating: “Actually, I am not the family spokesperson, but our revered Sarkin Sasa died yesterday evening. We will issue a statement in this regard as soon as possible.”
Meanwhile, senators representing Oyo Central and Oyo South Senatorial Districts under the All Progressives Congress, Yunus Akintunde and Sharafadeen Alli, have expressed their condolences over the passing of the revered traditional ruler.
In separate statements issued in Ibadan on Sunday, the lawmakers mourned the loss of Sarkin Sasa.
Akintunde, in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Kunle Olatunji, described the late Maiyasin as a staunch advocate of good governance and democracy.
He further described him as an epitome of humility, piety, and dedication to humanitarian service.
“Well-loved and highly respected by his subjects and associates across the country, the Sarkin Sasa, as he was fondly called, will be sorely missed.
“He was both a political and spiritual leader to many, endowed with exceptional leadership qualities and a peaceful disposition. We will miss his unwavering support, guidance, and wisdom.”
“My heartfelt condolences go to his immediate family, his subjects, and the Hausa communities across Nigeria, even beyond his traditional jurisdiction. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus,” Akintunde prayed.
Similarly, Senator Alli expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the monarch.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abass, Alli described the late traditional ruler as a towering figure in leadership and an unwavering advocate of good governance.
He praised the late ruler’s humility, piety, and dedication to humanity, noting that he remained a beacon of wisdom and a guiding light for many.
Alli commended his invaluable contributions to nation-building and community development through his spiritual and political influence.
“His leadership virtues were unparalleled, and his peaceful nature was a source of inspiration. He was a father figure to many, always offering wise counsel and unwavering support,” Alli said.
The lawmaker extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, the Arewa community, and the people of Sasa.
