The people of Niger State have been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of the Chairman of Katcha Local Government Area, Danlami Saku, in a car accident. The fatal crash occurred on Tuesday evening near Kwakuti village along the Minna-Suleja road as Saku was traveling to Abuja for an official function. Two other occupants in the vehicle sustained injuries in the incident.
Tragic Incident on Minna-Suleja Road
The crash, which took place on December 10, 2024, resulted in the sudden demise of the local government chairman. According to reports, Saku was in transit with two other passengers when the accident occurred. While the exact cause of the crash remains unclear, it highlights the dangers often associated with Nigeria’s busy road networks, particularly on routes like Minna-Suleja, known for heavy traffic and frequent accidents.
The injured occupants were immediately taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Their current condition has not been disclosed.
Official Confirmation and Condolences
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Muazu Jantabo, confirmed the sad development in a statement on Wednesday. He expressed profound sorrow over the loss while extending condolences to Saku’s family, friends, and the people of Katcha Local Government Area.
“It is with deep sadness but total submission to the will of Allah that I, on behalf of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, send my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and people of Katcha Local Government Area over the sudden and tragic loss of the Chairman, Danlami Saku,” the commissioner stated.
A Legacy of Leadership and Dedication
Jantabo paid tribute to the late chairman’s leadership and commitment to the development of Katcha Local Government Area. He highlighted Saku’s significant contributions to the progress of his community during his tenure, noting that his death is not only a loss to his immediate family but also to the entire state.
“Hon. Saku was a committed leader whose dedication and service to the development of Katcha Local Government will be remembered for years to come,” Jantabo remarked.
Public Reaction and Mourning
The news of Saku’s passing has elicited an outpouring of grief and tributes from residents, colleagues, and other stakeholders in Niger State. Many described him as a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his constituents. Community leaders and other government officials have also expressed their condolences, emphasizing the void his death has left in the state’s political landscape.
Road Safety Concerns on Nigerian Highways
Saku’s death adds to the growing concerns about road safety in Nigeria. The Minna-Suleja road, like many other major highways in the country, has a history of frequent accidents attributed to various factors, including poor road conditions, reckless driving, and vehicle malfunctions. Stakeholders have repeatedly called for enhanced measures to ensure safer travel on these routes, ranging from improved road maintenance to stricter enforcement of traffic regulations.
Burial Arrangements and Final Farewell
As of the time of this report, funeral arrangements for the late chairman have not been officially announced. It is expected that he will be laid to rest according to Islamic rites, with state officials, community leaders, and residents paying their final respects.
The Niger State government has promised to support the family during this difficult time and ensure that the injured occupants of the vehicle receive adequate medical care.
A Reminder of the Fragility of Life
The tragic loss of Danlami Saku serves as a solemn reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of road safety. As Niger State mourns one of its dedicated leaders, his contributions to the development of Katcha Local Government Area will remain a lasting legacy in the hearts of those he served.
