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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, Mallam Ibrahim Abubakar, who passed away in 1911 in Lokoja.
Sani revealed this during an interview in Lokoja on Monday, 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, Mallam 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, PUNCH Online reports.
“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, Mallam Ibrahim Abubakar.
“I will also allocate resources to revive the Islamiyah School, recruit teachers, and enrol students,” he added.
Sani 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.
Sani, who served as Senator from 2015 to 2019, reiterated his dedication as a Pan-Africanist to recognise leaders who defended Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Mr Abdullahi Ibrahim, the great-grandson of the deposed Etsu Abubakar, 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 visited on Saturday, requested a proposal, and released funds by Sunday,” Ibrahim said.
According to the release, renovation work will commence soon with the support of the emirate.
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