Barau, FG delegation visit Katsina over deaths of Sheikh Kaura, ex-Customs ACG Bagiwa

Barau Jibrin, the deputy Senate President

Jibrin Barau, the Deputy President of the Senate, on Thursday led a Federal Government delegation to Katsina State to condole with the government and families of Sheikh Habibu Yahaya Kaura, a prominent Islamic cleric, and Lawal Bagiwa, a former Assistant Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service.

Both men died on Wednesday, 20 January 2026, and were buried the same day in accordance with Islamic rites.

The delegation, sent by President Bola Tinubu, was received by Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.

Members of the delegation included Hope Uzodimma, the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor; Mai Mala Buni, Yobe State Governor; James Faleke, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Finance; and Ibrahim Kabiru Masari, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political and Other Matters.

Speaking at the residence of the late Sheikh Kaura, Barau said the visit was on behalf of President Tinubu to convey the Federal Government’s condolences, describing the cleric as a truthful and upright scholar whose life was devoted to the service of Islam and humanity.

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He said the President regarded Sheikh Kaura’s death as a significant loss, not only to Katsina State but to the country at large, given his religious influence and contributions to society.

Prayers were offered for the repose of the cleric’s soul and for strength for his family and followers.

The delegation also visited the residence of the late Lawal Bagiwa, where Barau described the retired customs officer as an accomplished public servant who served the country diligently and rose to the rank of Assistant Comptroller-General before his retirement.

Governor Radda thanked President Tinubu for the condolence visit, saying the gesture reflected the Federal Government’s concern for Katsina State and the families of the deceased.

“This means a lot to us”, the governor said, expressing appreciation on behalf of the state government, the bereaved families and the people of Katsina.

The visit comes amid tributes from political, religious and community leaders to both men, who were widely regarded as influential figures in Katsina State and beyond.

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