Former Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, has described the death of Khalifa Isyaku Rabi’u, a Kano-based cleric, businessman and philanthropist, as a great loss to the nation.
Babangida said this in a statement he signed in Minna on Thursday.
He said: ‘‘I had a close relationship with him over the years but I take solace in the fact that, we all came from Allah and to Him we shall all return.
‘‘At 93, we can all say that he left at a ripe age.
‘’But we will continue to miss him and his contribution to the growth of the economy of Nigeria and that of the Northern Nigeria in particular.
‘‘I can attest to the fact that, the late Khalifa Isyaku Rabi’u, lived a religious life in line with the dictates of the Islamic injunctions.
“He was an inspirational guide to me and my late wife, Maryam and the entire family.
‘‘We have enjoyed good relationship, even during the glowing moment of my military career and leadership of the country.
‘’We have shared together, issues that have helped to reshape the country for good.
‘‘We will continue to remember him for his patriotism and quest for peace and unity of Nigeria.”
He undertook various philanthropic ventures and spiritual guidance, not only in Nigeria but also in Africa and the world.
Babangida also extended condolences to the family of the deceased, Government, the people of Kano State and the Tijjaniyya Movement worldwide for the great loss.
He also prayed Allah to forgive the deceased and grant him Aljanah Fridausi (paradise).
Khalifa Rabiu died in a London hospital on Tuesday.
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