Photo Credit: Channels
Daniel Otera
The Shagari family has announced the death of Hajiya Saratu Shehu Shagari, the last surviving wife of Nigeria’s former President, Alhaji Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari, GCFR. She died on Monday afternoon at the age of 89 after a prolonged illness.
In a statement issued by the eldest son of the late president, Captain Mohammed Bala Shagari, the family expressed deep sorrow over the passing of their matriarch, describing her as a woman who lived a life marked by humility, grace, and quiet strength.
“With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Hajiya Saratu Shagari, the last surviving wife of former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, GCFR, Turakin Sokoto,” the statement read.
“Hajiya Saratu was an embodiment of grace, humility, and quiet strength who lived a life of dignity.”
Family members said she passed away peacefully around 3 p.m. on Monday, surrounded by loved ones at their residence. Burial arrangements, according to Islamic rites, will be announced later.
Hajiya Saratu, fondly remembered as “Uwar Gida” (the mother of the household), was deeply respected in Shagari town and among the wider Sokoto community for her devotion to family, simplicity, and faith. She stood firmly beside her husband during his years of national service and maintained her quiet presence long after his passing.
Her death marks the end of an era for the Shagari family, closing the chapter on a generation that witnessed Nigeria’s most defining political transitions from independence to the early republic and beyond.
Born in Sokoto, Hajiya Saratu was known for her compassion and unshakable calmness. Community members recall her as a mother figure who offered advice and hospitality to visitors from far and near.
Her late husband, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, served as Nigeria’s first executive president from 1979 to 1983 before being overthrown in a military coup. Known for his soft-spoken nature and statesmanship, Shagari’s leadership laid key foundations for Nigeria’s early democratic system. He died in December 2018 at the age of 93.
The passing of Hajiya Saratu is being mourned widely across political, religious, and traditional circles, with tributes pouring in from leaders who described her as a “symbol of quiet resilience” and “a woman who carried her role with rare dignity.”
Public figures from Sokoto and beyond are expected to attend the funeral once details are announced.