Hajiya Aya Dada Yar’Adua, the mother of former Nigerian President, Umaru Musa Yar’adua, has died at the age of 102.
Affectionately known as “Dada”, a family source said the matriarch died peacefully on Monday evening, at her home, surrounded by loved ones.
Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, confirmed the development in a post on X.
He tweeted, “Innalillahi Wa’inna Ilaihir Raji’un. I am saddened by the passing of Hajia Aya Dada Yar’Adua, mother of my late mentor, Tafida Shehu Yar’Adua, late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, among others.
“In the absence of my beloved mother, I adopted Hajiya Dada as a mother. Indeed, she was a mother of multitudes, as her home was always a place of refuge where she welcomed everyone with love. She will be sorely missed.
“On behalf of the Atiku Abubakar family and team, I express my profound condolences to the Yar’Adua family, friends and associates over the loss of this gem of inestimable value. My condolences also go to the government and people of Katsina State.
“May her sins be forgiven and that she be granted Aljannah Firdausi. Ameen. -AA”
The late matriarch was a respected figure in Katsina community. Her son, Umaru Yar’adua, served as President of Nigeria from 2007 until his passing in 2010.
Hajiya Aya Dada Yar’Adua was also the mother of two other prominent figures, the late General Shehu Musa Yar’adua and Senator Abdu Soja Yar’adua.
The family announced that the deceased will be laid to rest on Tuesday, in Katsina.
