Audu Sule Katagum, the former deputy governor of Bauchi State, has reportedly passed away at the age of 69. Katagum served as deputy governor of the northwestern state from 2018 to 2019 during the administration of former Governor Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar.
Death Announcement
The former deputy governor reportedly died in the early hours of Saturday, June 20. His death was announced in a statement by Shamsuddeen Lukman Abubakar, the digital and creative aide to former Governor Abubakar, on the same day.
According to Leadership, Abubakar stated that the former deputy governor lived "a life of dedicated service to his community, Bauchi State and the nation." He added that details of the funeral arrangements would be communicated in due course. Katagum served under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Abubakar prayed that Almighty Allah (SWT) would forgive the deceased his shortcomings, "grant him Aljannatul Firdaus, and give his family, friends and associates the fortitude to bear this great loss. Ameen."
Political Career and Legacy
The deceased was described as a respected politician and traditional title holder, holding the title of Wazirin Katagum. Before becoming deputy governor, he served as Chief of Staff at the Bauchi Government House. He is survived by his wife, children, and other relatives.
The late former deputy governor was the son of the late elder statesman Alhaji Sule Katagum, who was the pioneer chairman of the Federal Public Service Commission (FRSC) of Nigeria and also held the title of Wazirin Katagum. The Katagum Emirate described his death as a great loss to the wider people of Bauchi. He was widely respected for his contributions to public service and community development.
Condolences
His demise has been mourned by several figures in the state. Abdul S. Abdul mourned: "With total submission to the will of Allah, we accept the news of the demise of an elder statesman, technocrat, philanthropist and father, Architect Audu Sule Katagum, Wazirin Katagum. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannah. Condolences to all the good people of Bauchi State."
Aminu Adamu Mai Gyada prayed: "INNALILLAHI WA'INNA ILAIHI RAJIUN... May Almighty Allah rest your soul, Arc. Audu Sule Katagum (Wazirin Katagum)."
The Katagum Youth League expressed grief: "Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji'un. We join the entire Katagum Emirate in mourning the passing of His Excellency Arc. Audi Sule Katagum (Wazirin Katagum). We pray that Allah SWT forgives his shortcomings, grants him Al-Jannah Firdaus, amin."
Bldr. Shams mourned: "Today, his son, the Wazirin Katagum, Audu Sule, passed away. Allah Ya gafarta masu. Ameen."
