Zulum Consoles Ex-Deputy Governor Over Stepmother’s Death

Borno State governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, visited Shaffa town in Hawul local government area yesterday to commiserate with former deputy governor Hon. Usman Mamman Durkwa over the passing of his stepmother, Hajiya Zara Mamman Durkwa.

The late Hajiya Zara, mother of Alhaji Idris Durkwa, passed away on Monday in Abuja at the age of 93.

Governor Zulum offered prayers for the repose of her soul in Aljannatul Firdaus and urged the family to bear the loss with fortitude.

Responding on behalf of the family, Hon. Usman Mamman Durkwa expressed profound gratitude to the governor for his unwavering support to him in times of joy and sorrow.

“We are eternally grateful to Your Excellency for this condolence visit. Words cannot fully convey our appreciation. On behalf of the Durkwa family, we pray that Almighty Allah continues to strengthen you and grant you wisdom in steering the affairs of the state,” Durkwa said.

During his visit, Governor Zulum paid homage to the Emir of Biu, Mai Mustapha Umar Mustapha II, where he reiterated his administration’s commitment to enhancing security and infrastructure in the region.

“Let me assure Your Royal Highness that measures are being taken to improve security across Biu Emirate and the entire state. Additional trained volunteers will soon be deployed to reinforce security from Mandaragrau to Sabon Gari and the Buratai-Kamuya axis,” Governor Zulum stated.

He further announced plans to seek federal government approval to rehabilitate the dilapidated Azare-Shaffa road, emphasising its importance to local connectivity.

“The Azare-Shaffa road is in a deplorable state. What should be a short journey now takes nearly an hour. I will engage with the senator representing Borno South and the House of Representatives member for Biu and Hawul to explore the best approach for its reconstruction.”

Additionally, Governor Zulum pledged to rehabilitate Biu township roads and construct a modern library to promote education and revive the culture of reading among residents.

In his remarks, the emir of Biu, Mai Umar Mustapha II, lauded Governor Zulum for his empathy and proactive governance, noting the successful return of displaced communities in Mandaragrau.

“We deeply appreciate His Excellency’s dedication to the welfare of our people. The resettlement of Mandaragrau residents, facilitated by the deputy governor, is a testament to your administration’s commitment to peace and development,” the emir said.

The governor was accompanied on the visit by the member representing Marte, Monguno and Nganzai federal constituency, Hon Bukar Talba; commissioners for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Resettlement, and Trade, Commerce and Tourism; Special Advisers and the permanent secretary of Government House and Security.