By Prosper Mene
The Shagari family, one of Nigeria’s most revered political dynasties, is in mourning today following the death of Hajiya Saratu Shehu Shagari, the last surviving wife of the late former President Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari. The matriarch, aged 89, passed away peacefully at approximately 3:00 p.m. local time after a prolonged illness, marking the end of an era for a woman who embodied quiet resilience amid the turbulence of national leadership.
In a heartfelt statement released this evening, Capt. Muhammad Bala Shagari (retd.), the late president’s eldest son and Sarkin Mafaran Shagari, announced the loss: “With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Hajiya Saratu Shehu Shagari, the last surviving wife of former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, GCFR, Turakin Sokoto.” He described her as “an embodiment of grace, humility, and quiet strength; a devoted mother, grandmother, and matriarch who lived a life defined by dignity and compassion.”
Hajiya Saratu’s life was inextricably linked to her husband’s illustrious yet tumultuous political journey. Born into a prominent Fulani family in northern Nigeria, she married Shehu Shagari in the early 1950s, becoming a steadfast pillar during his rise through the ranks of Nigerian politics. Shagari, a founding member of the Northern People’s Congress (NPC) and later the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), served as Nigeria’s first democratically elected executive president from 1979 to 1983. His administration navigated the young democracy through economic challenges, including the global oil glut, while championing infrastructure projects and educational reforms.
Yet, Hajiya Saratu’s role extended far beyond the public eye. As First Lady, she maintained a low-profile grace, focusing on family, philanthropy, and Islamic charity work. She supported women’s education initiatives in Sokoto State and quietly advocated for family welfare during her husband’s tenure. Following the military coup that ousted Shagari on December 31, 1983, led by then-Major General Muhammadu Buhari, the couple retreated to their hometown of Shagari village in Sokoto State. There, Hajiya Saratu cared for her family through years of house arrest and political exile, until Shagari’s death in 2018 at age 93.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across Nigeria’s political spectrum. A grandson, Bello Bala Shagari, shared on social media: “We lost our matriarch, the only surviving wife of our late grandfather, Alhaji Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari. May her gentle soul rest in eternal peace.”
Political figures, including representatives from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have expressed condolences, hailing her as a symbol of enduring dignity in public service.
Details of funeral arrangements, expected to follow Islamic rites, will be announced shortly by the family. The burial is anticipated in Shagari village, drawing dignitaries from across the nation to honor a life that bridged Nigeria’s transition from colonial rule to independence and beyond.
Hajiya Saratu’s legacy of unwavering support, faith, and modesty, serves as a reminder of the unsung heroes behind the headlines.
