By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The Sarkin Sasa, Haruna Maiyasin Katsina, has passed away at the age of 125.

Until his death, he served as the Chairman of the Council of Arewa Traditional Rulers in the 17 southern states of Nigeria.

He died on Saturday evening at his residence in the Sasa community, Ibadan, in the Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State.

A family source, who spoke with The PUNCH on Sunday morning, confirmed his passing, stating: “Actually, I am not the family spokesperson, but our revered Sarkin Sasa died yesterday evening. We will issue a statement in this regard as soon as possible.”

Meanwhile, senators representing Oyo Central and Oyo South Senatorial Districts under the All Progressives Congress, Yunus Akintunde and Sharafadeen Alli, have expressed their condolences over the passing of the revered traditional ruler.

In separate statements issued in Ibadan on Sunday, the lawmakers mourned the loss of Sarkin Sasa.

Akintunde, in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Kunle Olatunji, described the late Maiyasin as a staunch advocate of good governance and democracy.

He further described him as an epitome of humility, piety, and dedication to humanitarian service.

Well-loved and highly respected by his subjects and associates across the country, the Sarkin Sasa, as he was fondly called, will be sorely missed.

“He was both a political and spiritual leader to many, endowed with exceptional leadership qualities and a peaceful disposition. We will miss his unwavering support, guidance, and wisdom.”

“My heartfelt condolences go to his immediate family, his subjects, and the Hausa communities across Nigeria, even beyond his traditional jurisdiction. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus,” Akintunde prayed.

Similarly, Senator Alli expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the monarch.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abass, Alli described the late traditional ruler as a towering figure in leadership and an unwavering advocate of good governance.

He praised the late ruler’s humility, piety, and dedication to humanity, noting that he remained a beacon of wisdom and a guiding light for many.

Alli commended his invaluable contributions to nation-building and community development through his spiritual and political influence.

“His leadership virtues were unparalleled, and his peaceful nature was a source of inspiration. He was a father figure to many, always offering wise counsel and unwavering support,” Alli said.

The lawmaker extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, the Arewa community, and the people of Sasa.

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Relegation-bound Sunshine Stars produced a remarkable comeback to hammer Kwara United 4-2 in a thrilling Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) matchday 27 encounter at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, on Saturday.

Liman opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a well-taken volley, but Kwara United responded swiftly, turning the game around with goals from Issa Gata (22’) and Wasiu Alalade (27’).

However, Liman struck again in the 32nd minute to restore parity before half-time, capitalizing on an assist from star midfielder Seth Mayi.

The midfielder completed his hat-trick just two minutes into the second half, sealing a crucial victory for Bala Abubakar’s side.

Midfielder Ahmadu Liman was the standout performer, scoring a superb hat-trick to help the Akure-based side secure their first win in three games and ease their relegation fears.

The win temporarily lifts Sunshine Stars out of the relegation zone to 16th place with 31 points, while Kwara United remain 11th with 36 points.

Meanwhile, the remaining matchday 27 fixtures are scheduled to take place today (Sunday) and Monday across various venues nationwide.

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Burkina Faso has taken a major step towards economic sovereignty by establishing its first-ever gold refinery.

After gaining full control of its gold mining sector, the country now refines its own gold, ensuring that more wealth stays within its borders.

In this historic achievement, Burkina Faso has processed 142 tonnes of mining residues, extracting 93kg of pure gold.

This move has generated 100 direct jobs and 5,000 indirect jobs, boosting local employment and industry growth.

Now refining gold at 99% purity, Burkina Faso earns $1,200 per ounce—far more than the $300 it previously received under French control. This marks a new era of self-reliance and economic transformation for the nation!

#africa #BurkinaFaso #EconomicFreedom #Gold