From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
Kaduna was agog on Friday as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stormed the state to attend the wedding fatiha of Nasirudeen, son of former Zamfara State governor and Senator, Abdul’Aziz Yari Abubakar.
The colourful ceremony, held at the historic Sultan Bello Mosque, Unguwar Sarki, attracted a roll call of political leaders, traditional rulers, religious figures, and captains of industry from across the country.
In the build-up to the wedding, the city wore a festive look. Security was tightened, surveillance heightened for days, while hotels and relaxation spots were fully booked by guests. On the wedding day, heavy security cordons were mounted around the mosque, with vehicular movement restricted to ensure orderliness.
President Tinubu, who arrived at Kaduna International Airport to a warm reception by Governor Uba Sani, was later cheered into the city by excited residents and party loyalists who lined the streets waving banners and chanting solidarity songs.
After the wedding rites, the President paid a condolence visit to the family of the late President Muhammadu Buhari. He described Buhari as “a selfless leader whose contributions to Nigeria’s unity and progress remain indelible,” assuring the family of his continued support.
The occasion was graced by governors Nasir Idris of Kebbi, Umar Bago of Niger, Dikko Radda of Katsina, and AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, alongside Minister of Defence Bello Matawalle.
Also present were former governors Sule Lamido of Jigawa, Aliyu Wamakko of Sokoto, Adamu Aliero of Kebbi, Ahmad Sani Yarima of Zamfara, Abdulfatai Ahmed of Kwara, and Aminu Bello Masari of Katsina.
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), former Communications Minister Isa Ali Pantami, APC National Chairman Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu also joined the dignitaries.
Adding royal colour to the gathering were the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II; the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Abdulhakeem Owoade; and the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamali.
Prominent clerics including Sheikh Kabiru Gombe, Sheikh Bala Lau, and the Northern CAN Chairman, Reverend John Joseph Hayab, offered prayers for the couple and for peace in the country.
The groom, Nasirudeen Abdul’Aziz Yari Abubakar, exchanged vows with Safiya Shehu Idris, daughter of Alhaji Shehu Tahir Malumfashi.
Residents described the ceremony as one of the biggest political and social gatherings in recent times, with Kaduna witnessing heavy human and vehicular movement despite restrictions.
