Muslims in Kano on Friday attended special prayers organized by the Murtala Mohammed Foundation to mark the 50th anniversary of the assassination of General Murtala Ramat Mohammed.
Gen. Murtala served as Nigeria’s Military Head of State from July 1975 until his death on 13 February 1976.
The prayer session, held at the Murtala Mohammed Mosque in Tudun Maliki, Kano, was attended by Islamic scholars, prominent personalities, and family members of the late leader. The Chief Imam of the mosque, Sheikh Kabiru Dan-Taura, led the prayers and recitation of verses from the Holy Qur’an.
Speaking after the session, Sheikh Dan-Taura said Gen. Murtala would be remembered for his lasting impact on Nigeria despite his brief time in office.
“Though his leadership was short, he profoundly influenced the lives of Nigerians and will continue to be remembered for that,” he said. He urged leaders at all levels to emulate the late Head of State’s dedication and leadership style, adding, “Whoever does good will not only be remembered but will be rewarded.”
Sheikh Dan-Taura also led attendees, including family members and notable figures, to the late General’s grave, where they offered additional prayers for his soul.
Risqua, one of Gen. Murtala’s sons, thanked participants for their presence and expressed gratitude that Nigerians continue to honor their father fifty years after his death.
“I thank Almighty God for witnessing this prayer session. I can only appreciate the people of Kano and Nigerians for keeping his memory alive,” he said.
Two of Gen. Murtala’s cousins, Ambassador Umar Wali and Ado Kurawa, also expressed their gratitude, praying for divine rewards for all who attended the memorial prayers.
Gen. Murtala, Nigeria’s fourth Head of State, was renowned for his dynamic reforms and anti-corruption drive. His administration undertook major civil service restructuring, created new states, moved the nation’s capital to Abuja, and supported anti-colonial movements in Southern Africa, earning both national admiration and international recognition.
