Former Kaduna-Central Senator and civil rights activist, Shehu Sani, has released funds for the renovation of the palace of the Late deposed Etsu Nupe Bida, Ibrahim Abubakar, who passed away in 1911 in Lokoja.
Sani revealed this during an interview in Lokoja yesterday, reaffirming his commitment to preserving historical sites tied to Nigeria’s freedom fighters.
The human rights activist also pledged additional funding to rehabilitate and revive the Islamiyah School, which hosts the tombs of the deposed Emir of Kano, Aliyu Abdullahi (Maisango), and Emir of Gwandu, Muhammadu Aliyu, exiled by British colonialists in 1903 and 1902, respectively.
During a recent visit to the tombs of six deposed northern emirs in Lokoja, Sani emphasised the importance of honouring those who resisted colonial rule. “My intention to renovate the palace of the deposed Etsu Nupe in Lokoja is still on course, and necessary arrangements are being made for a smooth project execution”, Sani stated.
He highlighted the dilapidated state of the Islamiyah School, and expressed his desire to restore it. “I have released funds for the renovation of the palace of the Late deposed Etsu Nupe, Malam Ibrahim Abubakar. “I will also allocate resources to revive the Islamiyah School, recruit teachers, and enrol students”, he added.
Sani, who served as Senator from 2015 to 2019, described the initiative as a collaboration with the custodians of the site. “This is the contribution I am making, in conjunction with the custodians of this place”, he said.
The former Senator reiterated his dedication, as a pan-Africanist, to recognise leaders who defended Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
The great-grandson of the deposed Etsu Abubakar, Abdullahi Ibrahim, praised Sani for his swift action. “We are grateful to Senator Sani for his prompt release of funds to renovate our great-grandfather’s palace.
“Many officials have made promises, but none followed through. The senator, who visited on Saturday, requested a proposal and released funds by Sunday”, Ibrahim said.
According to the statement, renovation work will commence soon with the support of the emirate.
