Kano hosts prayers for Murtala Mohammed’s 50th death anniversary

Family members, Islamic scholars and prominent dignitaries gathered in Kano on Friday for special prayers in honour of former Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Mohammed, as part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of his assassination.

The prayer session, organised by the Murtala Mohammed Foundation, took place at the Murtala Muhammad Mosque in the Tudun Maliki area of Kano metropolis, with many Muslims in attendance.

The Chief Imam of the mosque, Sheikh Kabiru Dan-Taura, led the session, which featured recitations from the Holy Qur’an and prayers for the repose of the late leader’s soul.

Speaking afterwards, Dan-Taura said Murtala’s legacy of service and sacrifice would continue to inspire Nigerians, despite his short time in office.

“Though his leadership was brief, he impacted the lives of Nigerians and will always be remembered for that,” the cleric said, urging current leaders to emulate his style of leadership and commitment to the public good.

He later led family members and other dignitaries to the late leader’s graveside for additional prayers.

Representing the family, Risqua Mohammed expressed gratitude to those who attended, noting that five decades after his father’s death, he remains widely remembered and honoured.

“I thank Almighty God for witnessing this prayer session and appreciate the people of Kano and Nigerians for remembering him,” he said.

Also speaking, two of Murtala’s cousins, Ambassador Umar Wali and Ado Kurawa, thanked participants and prayed for blessings upon them.

General Mohammed served as Nigeria’s military Head of State from July 1975 until his assassination on February 13, 1976.

As the country’s fourth Head of State, he was widely regarded for his reform-driven leadership, anti-corruption stance and bold policies.

His administration carried out civil service reforms, created additional states, initiated the relocation of the nation’s capital to Abuja and supported anti-colonial movements in Southern Africa, earning him national and international recognition.