In a heartfelt visit to the tombs of six Northern Nigerian Emirs in Lokoja, civil rights activist and former senator Shehu Sani has made a passionate plea for Nigerians and the government to honor and recognize the sacrifices of the country’s freedom fighters. The Emirs, who were exiled and deposed by British colonial rulers for resisting foreign control, are pivotal figures in Nigeria’s history of struggle for independence.
Sani, accompanied by Comrade Suleiman Ahmed, paid tribute to the late Emir of Kano, Mallam Aliyu Abdullahi (Maisango), who died in 1903 after being exiled to Lokoja. As he stood at the tombs, Sani reflected on the immense courage displayed by these Emirs who chose to stand for their people’s dignity and sovereignty, rather than bow down to the oppressive colonial forces. He called on Nigerians, from all walks of life, to take a moment to recognize those who made significant sacrifices to secure the freedom enjoyed today.
“The Emirs we honor today were not overthrown by their own people, but by the colonial powers that sought to enslave and control our land,” Sani remarked during his visit. “These men fought to protect our nation’s integrity and the dignity of our people. Their resistance, even in the face of exile and death, is a testament to the unwavering spirit of freedom we must never forget.”
Sani emphasized that the visit was not only a moment of personal reflection but also an invitation to all Nigerians to look back with gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made by these historical figures. “As we move forward as a nation, we must remember the heroes of our past. Their struggles laid the foundation for the freedoms we now enjoy. It’s crucial that we continue to honor their legacies,” he added.
During the visit, the Etsu Lokoja, Emmanuel Akamisoko Dauda-Shelika, and other local leaders warmly received Sani and his colleague. Dauda-Shelika praised the senator’s efforts, noting that it is often easy to forget the significant contributions of those who fought for the freedom of their people. “Shehu Sani’s visit serves as a timely reminder of the leadership and sacrifice shown by these Emirs in defending their people,” he said. “Their bravery is what true leadership is about.”
This poignant tribute serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering Nigeria’s past and honoring those who fought valiantly for the country’s future. It also sends a clear message that, while we celebrate progress, we must never forget the foundations upon which the nation was built.
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