By RAMATU GARBA

Kano, Feb. 6, 2026 (NAN) The Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) on Friday organised a special Juma’at prayer and graveside observance in honour of the late Head of State, Gen. Murtala Ramat Muhammed, to mark 50th anniversary of his death.

The prayer session was held at Masallacin Murtala, Hausawa, Zoo Road, Kano, where family members, associates, government officials and admirers gathered to offer prayers for the late leader.

Late Gen. Murtala, a nationalist, honest, patriotic, brave and courageous Nigerian Military Head of State, who believed in “Africa must stand on its feet” was killed in a failed coup on Feb. 13, 1976.

Sheikh Kabir Badamasi-Dantaura, the Chief Imam of the Mosque, led the prayer session and recited verses from the Holy Qur’an for the repose of the late general’s soul.

Speaking during the event, Malam Risqua Murtala Ramat, a son of the late leader, said the anniversary was a moment for sober reflection and appreciation of the legacies left behind by his father.

He said the remembrance was also meant to encourage Nigerians to celebrate the sacrifices of past heroes.

“50 years after his death, he is still remembered for his service to the nation. It is important for present and future generations to understand the sacrifices made by our past leaders to build the country.

“Gen. Murtala Muhammed stood for anti-corruption, integrity, honesty, fairness, justice and equity. Without these values, national progress will be difficult,” he said.

Also speaking, a former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Aminu Bashir-Wali, described late Murtala as a leader with rare qualities, noting that he was honest and passionate about the welfare of Nigerians.

Bashir-Wali, who said he was among the close allies of the late general, recalled that he had witnessed the aftermath of his assassination in Lagos in 1976.

“Murtala was a man who believed strongly in his convictions and did not pursue material wealth. He died virtually penniless. His commitment to national service remains unmatched,” he said.

He prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings and bless him with eternal rest.

Similarly, the Sarkin Fadan Kano and Hakimin Fagge, Alhaji Ado Kurawa, a cousin of the late general, urged Nigerians to continue praying for him.

In his remarks, an independent researcher, Ibrahim Ado-Kurawa, said late Murtala left enduring legacies in spite of spending only about 200 days in office as Head of State.

According to him, Murtala created seven additional states, initiated the relocation of Nigeria’s Federal Capital from Lagos to Abuja, and laid the foundation for the presidential system of government.

“He championed good governance and fought corruption, values that remain relevant to Nigeria’s socio-political development,” he said. (NAN)