Death is an inevitable part of life, but the pain of losing our beloved ones is profound and indescribable. The passing of our elder sister, Hajiya Asma’u Abba Rano, one of the 11 children our late mother left behind in 2020, has deepened my grief.
I mourn not only her but also our siblings Aminu, Bushirah, and Aisha (Ummah), whom death has also taken from us, leaving us with seven remaining siblings. This loss is a wound that words cannot heal.
Hajiya Asma’u’s departure was a traumatic experience for all of us. I received the heartbreaking news at 11:54 am from Aunty Binta, now the eldest living daughter in our household and an Assistant Chief Nursing Officer in the Kano State Hospital Management Board.
Yaya, as we affectionately called her, had been battling breast cancer, enduring the removal of one breast and undergoing chemotherapy at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital.
During my visits, Yaya would lament the extensive medications and dietary restrictions she had to endure. Despite her own challenges, Yaya continued to assist us financially and offered moral support. She lived harmoniously with her co-wives, always ensuring that we paid our respects to them during our visits.
One thing I know about my beloved sister is that she was a cheerful giver. Yaya Asma’u could give anything to anyone. I’ve seen her go the extra mile to help others.
Yaya Asma’u was not just a sister; she was a pillar of strength for her family and a guiding light for all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her life was a testament to the power of love, compassion, and resilience.
Beyond her battle with cancer, Yaya Asma’u remained a beacon of positivity and guidance. Her wisdom and advice were sought by family members and friends alike. She had an uncanny ability to lead others on the right path, offering counsel that was both compassionate and insightful.
Yaya Asma’u may no longer be with us in person, but her spirit will live on in our hearts forever. Her legacy of love and compassion will continue to inspire us to be better, kinder, and more generous individuals.
As we mourn Yaya Asma’u’s passing, we pray that Almighty Allah accepts her numerous good deeds, forgives her shortcomings, and showers her soul with His mercy. May He also grant us the privilege of reuniting with her in paradise. Verily, from Allah we come, and to Him is our return.
In the end, we are reminded that every soul, regardless of age, will taste the bitter cup of death when its time arrives. There is no escape from this undeniable truth.
- Buhari Abba wrote this tribute from Kano, Nigeria.
