By Mustapha Salisu
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has described the former presidential candidate of the defunct National Republican Convention (NRC) in the June 12, 1993 election, Late Alhaji Bashir Tofa as a man of true embodiment of excellence, service and resilience.
The Governor made this declaration in his address at the 2nd annual Bashir O. Tofa memorial lecture held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at the Dangote Business School, Bayero University Kano, to commemorate the life and legacies of late Tofa in our society.
The Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Comr. Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, recognised late Tofa’s multifaceted roles as a grassroots politician, philanthropist, banker, business tycoon, publisher, poet, writer, and statesman, who was celebrated for leaving an indelible mark not only in Kano State but nationally.
The Governor also commended Late Othman commitment to societal betterment, dedication to uplifting the less privileged, and support for educational initiatives.
In the business realm, Tofa was remembered as a trailblazer, demonstrating exceptional leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. His success in the banking sector and various business ventures serves as an inspiration for current and future generations of entrepreneurs.
Governor Yusuf further acknowledged Bashir’s literary contributions, describing him as a man of letters. By praising Tofa’s works as a publisher, poet, and writer which enriched the cultural landscape and providing a platform for expression and creativity.
The Governor described his political journey as one marked by courage, integrity, and a deep love for Nigeria. “As a grassroots politician, Tofa connected with the people, championing their causes and fearlessly speaking out on matters of public interest” He noted.
As the gathering paid tribute to Tofa’s memory, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf urged all to be inspired by Tofa’s commitment to excellence, selflessness, and dedication to the welfare of others. He called for the continuation of progress and development of Kano State and Nigeria in honor of Tofa’s legacy.
Earlier the Convener of the event, AB Mahmoud, SAN, who extolled the deceased said he will forever be missed as an elder statesman who lived a fulfilled life filled with patriotism and ever seeking for the development of the common man.
Also in his opening remarks, KCCI Chairman, Shehu Mohammed (Sarkin Shanun Kano) who doubles as representative of Emir of Kano, Alh. Aminu Ado Bayero described late Alhaji Bashir Othman Tofa an exemplary societal icon infused with so much compassion, altruism, sense of service and unalloyed love for peaceful co- existence in Kano State, Northern Nigeria and Nigeria in general.
PRIME TIME NEWS reports that 2nd annual Bashir O. Tofa memorial lecture which was organised by the Kano concerned citizens in conjunction with Kano Against Covid-19 Initiative saw goodwill messages from former Nigeria’s President, General Abdussalam Abubakar, United Nations Deputy Secretary General, Amina Mohammed, the 14th emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, Shehu Mohammed described him as someone who stood by the virtues of righteousness, highly intelligent and committed person while prayed his gentle soul continue to rest in peace.
Many captains of industries, influential personalities, highly placed public office holders as well as traditional leaders were in attendance at the memorial event.
PRIME TIME NEWS gathered that Tofa was the presidential candidate of the defunct National Republican Convention (NRC) in the June 12 1993 election. He contested against Chief MKO Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Tofa, a politician, business mogul and an author, died in the early hours of Monday, January 3, 2022, and was buried at Hajj Camp Cemetery in Kano metropolis.