Nigeria Mourns as Environment Minister Balarabe Lawal Loses Mother at 93
The Nigerian political community is in mourning following the passing of Hajiya Dayyabatu Lawal Aliyu, mother of the Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal. The elderly matriarch died at the remarkable age of 93 after battling a prolonged illness.
The sad event occurred on Sunday evening, November 9, 2025, at her private residence located in the Bambale Area of Zaria City, Kaduna State. Family sources confirmed she had been unwell for some time before her peaceful departure.
Funeral Arrangements and Distinguished Mourners
The final rites for the deceased were conducted according to Islamic traditions on Monday, November 10, 2025. The Janazah (funeral prayer) took place at 11:00 a.m. in the Bambale Area of Zaria City, with renowned Islamic cleric Mal Balarabe Mukaddas Zazzau leading the prayers at the Emir's Palace.
According to an official statement from the Zazzau Emirate released via their X handle @Zazzau_Emirate, the late Hajiya Dayyabatu was laid to rest at the Dembo Muslim Cemetery in Zaria, following the completion of funeral prayers.
The ceremony attracted numerous high-profile figures from Nigeria's political and traditional circles. Notable attendees included Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, former Kaduna State Governors Ahmed Makarfi and Dr. Ramalan Yero, and His Highness the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, CFR.
The gathering also included members of the Zazzau Emirate Council, District Heads, various Title Holders of the Emirate, and hundreds of sympathizers who came to pay their final respects to the minister's mother.
Family Legacy and Survivors
Late Hajiya Dayyabatu Lawal Aliyu leaves behind a substantial family legacy. She is survived by four children, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Among her immediate family members are her son, Honorable Minister of Environment Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, and Alhaji Shehu Lawal Bambale.
The passing of Hajiya Dayyabatu occurs during a period of significant loss within Nigeria's political families. This tragedy follows closely the recent death of former President Shehu Shagari's last surviving wife, Hajiya Sutura, who passed away at 89, and Audu Ogbeh, a former minister under both President Shehu Shagari and late President Muhammadu Buhari.
The community of Zaria and the entire nation join in mourning the loss of this respected elder, whose life spanned nearly a century and witnessed tremendous changes in Nigerian society and governance.
