A profound sense of loss has settled over the nation and the revered Shagari family. We share the solemn news of the passing of Hajiya Sutura Shagari, the last surviving wife of Nigeria’s former President, Alhaji Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari, GCFR, Turakin Sokoto.
Hajiya Sutura, an embodiment of grace and quiet strength, passed away earlier today, Monday, November 10, 2025, at the age of 89, following a prolonged illness. Family sources indicate she died around 3:00 p.m.
The news was officially announced by the late President’s eldest son and District Head of Shagari, Capt. Bala Shagari (rtd), in a statement issued from Sokoto. The announcement began with the deeply moving declaration:
“Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Hajiya Sutura Shehu Shagari, the last surviving wife of the former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari, GCFR, Turakin Sokoto.”
The statement went on to pay tribute to the matriarch's enduring legacy. The family praised her as “a devoted mother, grandmother, and matriarch who lived a life defined by dignity and compassion.”
Her grandson, Bello Bala Shagari, also shared a personal reflection on his Facebook page, capturing the depth of the loss:
“We lost our matriarch, the only surviving wife of our late grandfather, Alhaji Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari. May Allah reunite them in Jannah.”
The Shagari family concluded their statement by noting that her loss is "deeply felt by the Shagari family and all who knew her," and announced that further details regarding funeral arrangements will be communicated shortly. May her gentle soul rest in eternal peace.