By Khadijah Gharrah Abubakar
One of the prominent sons of Gwantu, Gwantu Chiefdom, in Sanga Local government area of Kaduna state, Engineer Abbas Reuben Habu, who passed away on Monday, 25th November, at the ripe age of 72, was laid to rest in his Gwantu country home.
Engineer Habu, a prominent son of Gwantu and former Federal Director, was remembered for his contributions to the development of his community. His funeral ceremony was attended by dignitaries and well-wishers from across Kaduna State.
Tributes poured in for the late Engineer Habu, who was eulogized for his exceptional patience, humility, and selflessness. He was remembered as a unifier who brought people together, and a father to the fatherless, who provided care and support to orphans and vulnerable children.
The funeral and burial ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including the Chief of Gwantu, His Royal Highness Malam Balarabe Abdullahi Karma, and the Chief of Ninzo, His Royal Highness Alhaji Umar Musa.
Other notable attendees included the President of Gwantu Progressive People’s Union, Shattiman Gwantu, Prince Bala Audu, Dan Masanin Gwantu, Mr. John Mairafi, also known as the ‘Jagaban of Gwantu’.
The Chairman and Group Editor-in-chief of Education Monitor Group of Newspapers, Hajj Waziri Isa Adam, Wazirin Gwantu III, was also in attendance, along with Elder statesman Adamu Isa Shamaki and Hon Sam Isa Shamaki.
The District Head of Gwantu, Alhaji Bashir Muhammad, Madakin Gwantu, Mr Umar Galadima, Dan Galadiman Numbu and Kaduna state chairman of Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Umar Muhammad were also in attendance.
Engineer Abbas Reuben Habu is survived by his wife, Madam Rifkatu, six biological children, and several children of his close and distant relations, whom he had taken under his care.
GWAPPU President said, “His legacy will continue to illuminate the lives of all who knew him”.