The remains of Miss Abiyatu and her younger brother, Alfa Anthony Joshua, who died in a ghastly motor accident, were on Saturday laid to rest in their hometown, Ture-Pandi, Kaltungo Local Government Area.
The funeral ceremony, laden with deep emotions, was held at ECWA Church, Ture Pandi, where the state Deputy Governor led a high-powered government delegation to pay last respects to the deceased, especially Miss Abiyatu, who served as a Chief Administrative Officer under the Office of the Secretary to State Government.
Paying tribute, the deputy governor, Dr Manassah Daniel Jatau, conveyed the heartfelt condolences of the governor, government, and people of Gombe State over the tragic loss.
He noted that death is inevitable for all mortals but emphasised the importance of living a life dedicated to service to God and humanity.
Quoting John 9:4, the deputy governor reminded the congregation, “We must do the work of Him who sent us while it is still day; night is coming when no one can work,” explaining that “night” represents death, incapacitation, or any hindrance that renders one helpless.
He further recalled Apostle Paul’s teaching about perilous times, stressing that in today’s world, especially in Nigeria, being able to lay loved ones to rest with dignity is a blessing worth appreciating. He encouraged the congregation to hold firmly to God in preparation for eternity, reminding them that life, like a blossoming flower, can fade at any time.
In his condolence message, the Secretary to Government of Gombe State, Prof Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, sympathised with the people of Ture-Pandi and urged them to accept the reality of life, as every mortal shall taste death and matters of life and death is a divine act of God and no one question that.
He described the late Abiyatu as a reserved but friendly person who lived peacefully with people and was highly committed to her duties as a chief administrator.
In his tribute remarks,the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on research and documentations, government house, Dr Ahmad Adamu, described late Abiyatu Anthony Joshua as his student, a humble, dedicated and very committed staff whom he has enjoyed working with and difficult to replace.
He prayed God to grant the family, relations and entire people of Gombe State the strength to bear the irreparable painful loss.
Delivering the sermon, Reverend Keikema Ado Danbaka, drew his text from Psalms 119:27–29 and Romans 15:13. Preaching on the topic; “Be Strong in Times of Sorrow,” he admonished the congregation about the many forms of death people are exposed to and encouraged them to hold firmly to Jesus as the only remedy.
He said Christians should take solace in the fact that God calls home those He loves, and as such, the deceased are resting with Him.
Those who paid tribute included the representative of the Mai Kaltungo, Retired Reverend Tukur Piga, the District Head of Ture, His Highness Habila Garba, the deceased’s brother, Mr Aminu Anthony Joshua, friends, and members of the churches where the deceased worshipped. They all described Abiyatu and her brother Alfa as committed individuals who will be greatly missed.
In his vote of thanks, the uncle of the deceased, Mr Adamu Joshua Pukma, appreciated the government of Gombe State and all who identified with the family during their bereavement, praying God to grant everyone safe journeys.
Jack.A.Tasha
Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Publicity,
(Deputy Governor’s Office)
