NEPU Chieftain, Elder Statesman, Pioneer Administrator, Founding Father of Nasarawa State
By Suleiman Abubakar Rimi Uku Lafia
The political and traditional spheres of Nigeria mourn the passing of Alhaji Yahaya Sabo, the revered Marafan Lafia, whose life of purpose, activism, and statesmanship continues to echo across generations.
A towering figure in Nigeria’s political evolution, the late Yahaya Sabo was a nationalist and democrat who served as the National Secretary of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), an influential platform that championed the ideals of justice, equality, and northern enlightenment.
He further distinguished himself as Commissioner for Works in the former Benue-Plateau State, where he was celebrated for his transformative infrastructural policies and visionary leadership in the civil service.
Alhaji Sabo’s political wisdom later found expression at the national level, as he was appointed Principal Liaison Officer (PLO) to President Shehu Shagari during Nigeria’s Second Republic, a period that tested the strength and sincerity of democratic values.
Notably, he was a founding father of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and one of the most formidable forces behind the creation of Nasarawa State, galvanizing stakeholders to rally around the cause for self, determination and socio-political development of the region.
As Marafan Lafia, Alhaji Yahaya Sabo embodied traditional wisdom and used his influence to promote peace, unity, and youth mentorship.
He was not just a political figure but a community icon whose legacies shaped the landscape of modern Nasarawa.
His passing is more than a loss, it is the departure of a historical figure whose contributions to Nigeria’s political development and Nasarawa’s emergence will never be forgotten.
May Allah (SWT) grant him eternal rest and admit him into Aljannatul Firdaus.
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