THE FALL OF A MIGHTY BAOBAB

…TRIBUTE AND CONDOLENCE MESSAGE ON THE PASSING OF MALAM BIKAI GOZAH

With deep sorrow, I extend my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Malam Bikai Gozah of Fadan Attakar, Takad Chiefdom, Kaura Local Government Area, Kaduna State.

Born on December 31, 1943, in Fadan Attakar, where he spent his entire life, Malam Bikai was a pillar of his family and community. A faithful and devoted Christian, he lived a life of service and commitment, leaving behind an enduring legacy.

Education and Teaching Career

Malam Bikai Gozah was a dedicated educator whose academic journey reflected his passion for learning and teaching. He began his formal education in Native Authority and Missionary Schools, where he completed his primary and secondary education. He then proceeded to Teachers College Katsina, where he obtained his Grade II Teaching Certificate. His quest for further knowledge led him to the Federal College of Education (FCE), Zaria, where he earned a Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE).

As a distinguished educator, he served under the Native Authority of the Jema’a Federation, shaping young minds with knowledge and discipline until his retirement. His contributions to education were immeasurable, helping to build generations of enlightened individuals.

Political Activism and Public Service

Beyond his role as a teacher, Malam Bikai was a committed politician, deeply rooted in the radical ideals of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) and later the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP). His political activism was part of a broader struggle for social justice, equality, and the emancipation of the oppressed masses.

In the First Republic, he stood alongside stalwarts like Shugaba Dan Azumi Qassim, Late Mr. Bulus Gonkon, and Late Isyaku Kaningkon, upholding the principles of Malam Aminu Kano’s ideological movement. The reincarnation of NEPU in the Second Republic under PRP saw him continue the struggle, helping to shape progressive governance in Kaduna and Kano States.

His unwavering commitment to the masses and his ideological convictions led him to remain politically active even in later years, engaging with the PDP and ACN. His service as an appointed Councillor of Kaura LGA under the PDP reflected his continued dedication to public service.

Comradeship and Legacy

Personally, my path crossed with Malam Bikai’s during the revival of NEPU/PRP legacies under the leadership of the late Balarabe Musa and Dr. Yusuf Bala Usman. Despite generational, religious, and ideological differences, we shared a deep bond through our mutual commitment to justice and equity. Our joint participation in the Kaduna Movement for Equity, Development, and Empowerment (Mai Rago Movement) between 2000 and 2003 further strengthened our comradeship.

Malam Bikai was a man of integrity, simplicity, and humility—qualities that defined the NEPU/PRP political class. Unfortunately, history has often overlooked the selfless sacrifices of such men, depriving younger generations of the opportunity to learn from their unwavering struggles for human dignity, social justice, and shared prosperity.

Family and Condolences

Malam Bikai is survived by his wife, Madam Grace Bikai, whom he married after the passing of his first wife. He leaves behind ten children, about forty grandchildren, and a score of great-grandchildren. His departure at the ripe age of 82 is a great loss to his family, community, and the larger political landscape of Kaduna State and Nigeria.

I extend my condolences to his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, associates, comrades, His Royal Highness the Agom Takad, the people of Kaura LGA, and the government and people of Kaduna State. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Adieu, Malam Baba Bikai.

Comrade Sanusi A. S. Maikudi

Network for Justice, Kaduna