Akpabio, Kogi govt, others mourn
Saudi Arabia has approved the burial of businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, in the Islamic holy city of Madina.
His Principal Private Secretary, Mustapha Junaid, posted this on his Facebook page.
Junaid said the burial is today.
Dantata died on Saturday morning in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
He was 94.
Dantata was the last surviving child of Alhassan Dantata. Kano State Islamic Council of Ulama observed a special funeral prayer for him on Saturday.
The “Ga’ib Prayers” is an Islamic funeral procession that is performed when the body of the deceased is not physically present.
Sanusi Dantata, son of the late business tycoon, @SaSDantata on his “X” page said: “(The) late Alhaji Aminu Dantata’s long wish was to be laid to rest in the Holy Prophet’s city of Madinah.
“Arrangements for approval from Saudi to move the body from Abu Dhabi to Madinah are on. If it prolongs, the body will be brought to Kano for burial..
“Alhamdulillah, Saudi Arabia has approved that remains of Alhaji Aminu Dantata be buried in the Holy land of Madinah!
“Arrangements are on for his Janazah tomorrow, in shaa Alla in the Holy Prophet’s mosque.”
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Also, Kogi State has expressed sorrow on the passing of the business mogul and philanthropist. The government described his death as a huge loss.
In a condolence message on behalf of government and people, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said Dantata was “not just a successful businessman but an institution, whose name symbolised integrity, generosity, and a commitment to national progress”.
The statement said Governor Ahmed Ododo got the news with a heavy heart, and extended sincere condolences to the Dantata family, the government and people of Kano State, business community and the nation.
“Alhaji Aminu Dantata was a man whose legacy transcended material wealth. He built businesses that empowered thousands, established schools and hospitals that uplifted the vulnerable, and gave to causes that touched lives,” it said.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio also mourned Dantata.
In a condolence message by is Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, he described the late billionaire as a man with a good heart.
“I know Alhaji Aminu Dantata as an ingenious and generous man, who made his fortune through hard work and industry. He contributed to development of Kano State, North, and the nation,” he said.
Akpabio consoled the family, people, government of Kano and business community, saying they have lost an icon, a worthy mentor, and grandfather.