Adebayo Says Ex-Finance Minister, Alhaji, Left Enduring Legacy

Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) for the 2027 general election, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has mourned the passing of the Sardaunan Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, describing him as a distinguished statesman whose lifetime of service left an enduring legacy for Nigeria.

Adebayo, in a condolence message issued on Thursday, said he received the news of the elder statesman’s death at the age of 87 with profound sadness, noting that Nigeria had lost one of its most accomplished public servants and patriotic leaders.

According to him, the late Sardaunan Sokoto’s decades of service to the country, including his roles as Minister of Finance, Permanent Secretary and Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, were marked by wisdom, integrity and an unwavering commitment to national development.

“Nigeria has lost a distinguished statesman, accomplished public servant, and patriotic leader whose remarkable career in public service left an enduring legacy,” Adebayo said.

The SDP flag bearer said the late statesman lived a life defined by honour, humility and selfless service, adding that his contributions to Nigeria’s development and the preservation of the traditions of the Sokoto Caliphate would continue to inspire generations.

On behalf of his family and supporters, Adebayo extended his condolences to the deceased’s immediate family, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultanate Council, the Sokoto State Government under Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, and all Nigerians mourning the loss.

He prayed that Almighty Allah forgives the late Sardaunan’s shortcomings, accepts his good deeds and grants him Aljannatul Firdaus.

Adebayo also prayed for divine comfort and strength for the bereaved family, the Sultanate Council and the nation, describing the late elder statesman as a national figure whose exemplary service and patriotism would remain a reference point in Nigeria’s history.

He concluded his message with the Islamic prayer, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un,” affirming that all souls ultimately return to their Creator.