Kano, Nigeria — The Director-General of Media and Publicity for Kano State, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, has announced the passing of his 15-year-old son, Sadiq Modibbo Bature, following complications from a bone marrow transplant in India.
The funeral is scheduled for Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 4 p.m. in Dawakin Tofa town, where Sadiq will be laid to rest according to Islamic rites.
In a heartfelt statement, Bature described his son as “a bright and obedient young boy” who had courageously endured a lifelong battle with sickle cell anemia. Sadiq recently underwent a bone marrow transplant in an Indian hospital to address his condition, but complications following the procedure affected his brain, leading to his passing.
“Throughout his life, Modibbo suffered from sickle cell anemia and recently underwent a successful bone marrow transplant in an Indian hospital,” Bature wrote on social media. “Unfortunately, he died as a result of post-surgery complications in his brain.”
Bature invited the public to join the family in prayers for Sadiq’s soul and for strength during this time. He added, “We invite all Muslims to join us in performing the funeral prayer, seeking forgiveness for our beloved Abubakar, and praying for his soul to be granted Jannatul Firdausi.”
Sympathy and tributes poured in from friends and colleagues. Mukhtar Yahya Usman wrote, “I extend my deepest sympathies to you and your family on the heartbreaking loss of your beloved son, Sadiq Modibbo. This is truly a profound and painful loss.”
Hamza Ibrahim Baba shared, “May the Almighty Allah forgive him and accept his Shahada. May Aljannat Alfirdaus be his final abode.”
The family thanked well-wishers for their prayers and support, asking for continued prayers as they prepare for Sadiq’s burial on Saturday.