Kano State’s legislative body has been plunged into profound mourning following the unprecedented deaths of two of its members, Honourable Aminu Ungoggo and Honourable Sarki Daneji, who both passed away within hours of each other on Wednesday. The sudden double loss has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of the state and the nation, leaving constituents and colleagues grappling with immense grief.
Honourable Aminu Ungoggo, who served as the respected Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, was the first reported casualty. He reportedly collapsed and died at the Assembly complex after experiencing a brief illness, underscoring the demanding nature of public service. His sudden demise occurred while he was actively engaged in his legislative duties, a detail confirmed by Kamaluddeen Sani Shawai, the spokesperson for the Speaker of the Assembly.
Speaker Jibril Falgore expressed deep sorrow over Ungoggo’s passing, describing the loss as irreplaceable and a significant blow to the state. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the constituents of Ungoggo, and his fellow lawmakers, emphasizing Ungoggo’s critical contributions during a vital period for Kano citizens. Ungoggo was laid to rest on Wednesday evening in his hometown, survived by his wife and children.
Shortly after the news of Ungoggo’s death emerged, the Assembly was dealt another devastating blow with the announcement of Honourable Sarki Daneji’s passing. Representing the Tudun Wada Constituency, Daneji also reportedly succumbed to a brief illness on the same fateful day. His death compounded the tragedy, leaving the entire legislative chamber in a state of disbelief and sorrow, as details of his contributions to local governance and community development were recalled.
The simultaneous loss of two active lawmakers on a single day is an exceptionally rare and deeply unfortunate occurrence in Nigeria’s political history. The atmosphere within the Kano State House of Assembly has become somber, with legislative proceedings and daily activities momentarily overshadowed by a collective sense of grief and reflection. Colleagues remember both men as dedicated public servants committed to their constituencies and the welfare of Kano State.
This dual tragedy leaves a significant void within the Assembly, particularly given Ungoggo’s crucial role in financial oversight and Daneji’s advocacy for his grassroots constituency. The immediate challenge for the remaining lawmakers involves navigating the legislative agenda while grappling with the emotional impact of losing two valued members, whose expertise and presence will be sorely missed.
Reactions to the double fatality have extended beyond the legislative chambers, with political leaders, civil society organizations, and citizens across Kano State expressing their condolences. The state governor and various political figures have issued statements acknowledging the profound loss and commending the deceased lawmakers for their service to the people, highlighting the unity in grief that has enveloped the state.
The demanding nature of public office often places immense pressure on individuals, and these tragic events serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost associated with dedicated service. The incident prompts a broader reflection on the health and well-being of public officials who tirelessly work to represent their constituents and contribute to governance.
Looking ahead, constitutional provisions mandate that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will initiate processes to conduct by-elections to fill the two vacant seats. This ensures continued representation for the Ungoggo and Tudun Wada constituencies, although the process will unfold under the shadow of the recent losses.
As Kano State grapples with this unprecedented tragedy, the focus remains on supporting the bereaved families and honouring the legacies of Honourable Aminu Ungoggo and Honourable Sarki Daneji. Their service to the state, though cut short, will be remembered as the Assembly and the wider community collectively mourn the passing of two dedicated public servants.
