Deaths occur every day, but some deaths shake the community more than others do. One cannot help but to salute the soul of one whose death throws the larger society into sober moods.
Sheikh Dr Ashiru Sani Daura’s death only added to what almost everyone knew about him: that this is a rare and exceptional man of our times – humble though gifted, modest despite his vast exploits, assistive, one whose integrity any honest man will admire. He was easy to work with, such that whenever you do, you walk away with new knowledge.
Read Also: The science of climate change explained: facts, evidence and proof
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) was once again thrown into heavy mourning with the passage of Dr Ashiru Sani on Friday, 11th of Ramadan equivalent to 23rd April 2021.
Dr. Ashiru was a former Director of ICT in the Commission under whose supervision the Unit introduced innovative changes and upgrades in NAHCON, one of which was automating NAHCON’s pilgrims and Hajj Tour companies registration as part of global Hajj Management System project anchored by Punjab Information Technology Board.
An indigene of Daura in Katsina State, Dr Ashiru in 1984 bagged a BSc in Electrical and Computer Engineering from King Abdul Azeez University, Jeddah. He added a Masters Degree in Computer Vocational Education from the Colorado State University in 1990 before proceeding to add a PhD in Digital Signal Processing in 1998 from University of Newcastle, United Kingdom.
He used his vast wealth of knowledge and experience in different capacities in Nigeria’s digital space.
Dr Ashiru Sani Daura was extraordinary in death as he was in life. It was reported that he left a will instructing his corpse be treated ordinarily as prescribed by the sunnah of the Prophet of Islam.
He directed thus:
- No snapping of pictures during burial
- No mourning ceremony beyond 3 days
- No erecting of tents/canopies in his residence or hanging around beyond few minutes of condolence.
- Condolences to the wives should be restricted within the compound only
- The complete Janazah be conducted according to the teachings of our Messenger (Muhammad SAW)… Condolences and eulogies have continued to pour in days after his demise was announced.
NAHCON’s management and entire staff continue to express their grief and exceptional experiences working with the gentleman to the core.
May his soul find eternal peace in the most honorable resting place in jannah. May his family find the strength to fill the void created by his absence. May the Almighty bless his progeny and all works left behind by him.
Usara is Head, Public Affairs, NAHCON
