Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has mourned the death of a former military administrator of the state, Abu Ali, Brigadier-General (rtd.).
This was disclosed in a press release signed by Mukhtar Gidado, the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, and made available to journalists in Bauchi.
Ali served as military administrator of Bauchi State from September 1990 to January 1992 under the Ibrahim Babangida administration.
“It is with profound sadness that His Excellency, Governor Bala Mohammed, on behalf of his family, the government and the good people of Bauchi State, mourns the passing of Brigadier-General (rtd.) Abu Ali, former military administrator of the state,” the statement said.
The governor noted that Ali’s tenure was marked by notable developmental strides and a strong commitment to the welfare of the people.
He said the Bauchi Township Water Project was commissioned during Ali’s administration, expanding access to critical water infrastructure in the state capital.
Mohammed added that the late administrator also played a pivotal role in strengthening the Tomato Processing Company and founded the Wikki Tourists Football Club, which has since become a major source of pride for the state.
“Beyond infrastructure and economic development, General Abu Ali showed strong leadership in moments of crisis. In 1991, when ethno-religious unrest erupted in Tafawa Balewa and other communities, he acted decisively to restore peace by imposing a curfew and deploying security forces. His firm yet thoughtful approach helped stabilise the situation and prevented further escalation,” the statement added.
The governor also applauded Ali’s dignified exit from office when he peacefully handed over to an elected government in January 1992, describing it as a demonstration of respect for democratic governance.
He said Ali continued to serve his people as the Etsu Bassa Nge, a first-class traditional ruler in Kogi State since 2000, where he became a symbol of wisdom, cultural pride and leadership.
Read also: Bauchi shuts down schools over rising insecurity
“General Abu Ali was known for his humility, integrity and dedication. His life was a model of service to his soldiers, to the people of Bauchi, and to his cultural community. He leaves behind a legacy of leadership that transcends his military and traditional roles,” Mohammed said.
The governor extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the late general, his children and the Bassa Nge Kingdom in Kogi State, and urged the people of Bauchi to pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.
“May the memory of Brigadier-General (rtd.) Abu Ali continue to inspire us all as a servant-leader, a visionary, and a man of courage and compassion,” he added.
