New Post Africa

Category: Obituaries

  • Kagame visits Qatar, condoles Emir over death of former ruler

    Kagame visits Qatar, condoles Emir over death of former ruler

    DOHA, Qatar (NPA) — Rwandan President Paul Kagame has travelled to Qatar to personally convey his condolences to Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani following the death of his father, the former ruler of the Gulf state, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

    The former Emir died on July 12, 2026, at the age of 74.

    According to a statement issued on Monday by the Rwandan Presidency, President Kagame met with the Qatari leader in Doha to express his sympathy and solidarity with the people of Qatar during the period of national mourning.

    “This morning in Doha, President Kagame met with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to convey his condolences on the passing of his beloved father, His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, and to express his solidarity with the people of Qatar during this time of mourning,” the Presidency said.

    Earlier, Kagame had paid tribute to the late statesman in a condolence message, describing him as a visionary leader whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations.

    “My deepest condolences to my brother, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, his family and the people of Qatar on the passing of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani,” Kagame said.

    He credited the late former Emir with transforming Qatar into one of the world’s most influential and prosperous nations.

    “His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani will be remembered as a visionary leader who transformed Qatar into the remarkable nation it is today. His legacy of service to his people and commitment to friendship and cooperation among nations will endure for generations,” he said.

    Kagame also reaffirmed Rwanda’s solidarity with Qatar during the period of bereavement.

    “At this difficult time, the people of Rwanda and I stand with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and our Qatari brothers and sisters,” he added.

  • JUST IN: Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour announces death of mother

    JUST IN: Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour announces death of mother

    LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Lagos State governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has announced the death of his mother, Mrs Nkechi Stella Rhodes-Vivour (née Waboso).

    Rhodes-Vivour announced the passing in a family statement issued on Monday, expressing gratitude for what he described as a life well lived.

    The deceased was remembered as a devoted wife, mother and grandmother whose life was defined by love and selfless service to her family.

    “With sadness in our hearts and gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the call to glory of Nkechi Stella Rhodes-Vivour (née Waboso),” the statement read.

    Describing her as “the epitome of love,” the family said her passing leaves a deep void.

    “A loving wife, devoted mother and grandmother. The epitome of love. She will be sorely missed. May her beautiful soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement added.

    The family said details of the funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.

    The announcement was signed by Olawale Rhodes-Vivour on behalf of the family.

  • BREAKING: Tanzania’s President Samia mourns Qatar’s former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, dead at 74

    BREAKING: Tanzania’s President Samia mourns Qatar’s former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, dead at 74

    DODOMA, Tanzania (NPA) — Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has extended condolences to the Government and people of Qatar following the passing of the country’s former ruler, His Highness the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who died on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at the age of 74.

    In a statement on Sunday, President Suluhu extended her sympathies to the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, and praised the late statesman for his transformative leadership and enduring contributions to Qatar’s development.

    “On behalf of the Government and people of the United Republic of Tanzania, I extend my deepest condolences to His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, and the people of the State of Qatar, following the demise of His Highness the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani,” she said.

    President Suluhu described the late Father Emir as a visionary leader whose legacy would be remembered for driving Qatar’s socio-economic transformation and promoting the empowerment of women.

    “The late former Emir of Qatar will be remembered for his significant contribution to the socio-economic development of Qatar and his critical role in advancing women empowerment, especially their enfranchisement,” she added.

    She concluded her tribute with the Islamic prayer: “Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.”

    Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, after assuming power in a peaceful transition that ended the reign of his father, Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani.

    During his tenure, he transformed Qatar into one of the world’s wealthiest and most influential states through ambitious economic reforms, strategic investments and an assertive foreign policy.

    Among his most notable achievements were the establishment of the Qatar Investment Authority, which became one of the world’s leading sovereign wealth funds, the launch of Al Jazeera, which reshaped the Arab media landscape, and major investments in education, healthcare and infrastructure.

    His administration also secured Qatar’s successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a landmark achievement that elevated the country’s global profile and reinforced its role in international sports diplomacy.

  • BREAKING: Trump confirms death of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, Zelenskyy pays tribute

    BREAKING: Trump confirms death of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, Zelenskyy pays tribute

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPA) — United States President Donald Trump has confirmed the death of veteran Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, describing him as a patriot and one of the finest lawmakers he has known.

    Graham, who represented South Carolina in the U.S. Senate from January 2003 until his death on July 11, 2026, served in the chamber for more than two decades.

    Announcing the development in a post on Truth Social on Sunday, President Trump paid tribute to the late senator’s public service and unwavering commitment to the United States.

    “Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead! He was always working, and was a true American Patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!! DETAILS AND ARRANGEMENTS TO FOLLOW. So sad!” Trump wrote.

    Also reacting, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described Graham as a steadfast supporter of Ukraine and a champion of freedom whose contributions would be remembered.

    In a statement on Sunday, Zelenskyy said he was deeply saddened by the senator’s death.

    “Deeply saddened by the news of the passing of United States Senator Lindsey Graham. Lindsey was a true defender of freedom and the values that make our world safer,” he said.

    According to the Ukrainian leader, Graham visited Ukraine 10 times since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion and consistently stood with the Ukrainian people during some of their most difficult moments.

    “He visited Ukraine ten times during the years of Russia’s full-scale invasion and was here with our people when it was most needed. We remained in constant dialogue, and I will miss our conversations. We met twice in just the past week,” Zelenskyy said.

    He added that Graham had been a leading advocate for bipartisan and bicameral support for Ukraine in the United States Congress and had recently been working on initiatives aimed at strengthening sanctions against Russia and advancing efforts towards peace.

    “We will always be especially grateful for the recognition of our people and words of admiration for the courage of Ukraine’s defenders,” Zelenskyy added.

    Describing the senator’s passing as a significant loss, the Ukrainian President said America and the international community had lost a determined leader.

    “Our condolences go out to Lindsey’s family, loved ones, and everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him,” he said.

  • Amnesty condemns mob killing of Kaduna teacher, demands police probe

    Amnesty condemns mob killing of Kaduna teacher, demands police probe

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Amnesty International Nigeria has condemned the mob killing of Malama Ummulkhairi, a mother of five and teacher, in Mararaban Jos community along the Kaduna–Zaria highway, describing the incident as a horrific example of growing jungle justice in the country.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, the rights group said Ummulkhairi was attacked and killed on June 21 after a false alarm allegedly accused her of planning to abduct children while she was on her way to attend a Qur’anic recitation session.

    Amnesty International also called for an investigation into allegations that police officers handed the victim over to the mob that eventually lynched her.

    The organisation urged the Inspector-General of Police to probe claims by eyewitnesses that officers at a police station surrendered the victim to an angry crowd after the facility was invaded.

    According to Amnesty, some witnesses alleged that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) stripped Ummulkhairi of her hijab and dragged her into the hands of the mob.

    Eyewitnesses told the organisation that officers on duty brought the victim out of the station and handed her over to the crowd, which subsequently killed her and set her body ablaze.

    Amnesty described the incident as another indication of the authorities’ failure to protect lives and prevent mob violence.

    According to the group, the persistent failure to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of jungle justice has encouraged a culture of impunity and emboldened violent mobs across the country.

    “This incident is yet another example of the shocking failure of Nigerian authorities to protect lives, leading to an escalation of mob violence as people increasingly take the law into their own hands,” the organisation said.

    Amnesty warned that mob attacks, often driven by suspicion, rumours and unverified allegations, pose a serious threat to the right to life and the rule of law.

    “It is appalling that mob violence is gradually becoming the norm nationwide. It is largely meted out based on suspicion, rumour or hearsay,” the statement added.

    The rights group described mob violence as one of the greatest threats to human rights in Nigeria, stressing that authorities must act decisively to end the trend.

    “The fact that these killings have persisted for years, with few cases investigated and prosecuted, highlights the authorities’ failure to uphold their obligation to protect people from harm and violence,” Amnesty said.

    The organisation called for a thorough investigation into the killing and urged authorities to ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice.

  • Peter Obi consoles Dickson over death of longtime aide

    Peter Obi consoles Dickson over death of longtime aide

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Presidential candidate of Nigeria’s major opposition party, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has expressed condolences to former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Henry Seriake Dickson, over the death of his longtime security aide, retired Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Zamani Tanko.

    Obi conveyed his sympathy in a statement on Friday, describing Tanko as a loyal and dedicated aide who served Senator Dickson faithfully for more than 15 years.

    According to Obi, he received news of Tanko’s passing with deep sorrow and subsequently visited Dickson to commiserate with him and members of his team.

    “I received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of DSP Zamani Tanko (Rtd), who was a faithful aide to my dear brother and party leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, for over 15 years,” Obi said.

    “This morning, I visited Senator Dickson to share in his grief and that of his entire team. DSP Zamani served with loyalty and dedication, and his loss will be felt by all who knew him.”

    The former Anambra State governor extended his condolences to the bereaved family and all those affected by Tanko’s death.

    “On behalf of myself and my family, I extend heartfelt condolences to Senator Dickson, DSP Zamani’s family, and everyone touched by his life,” he said.

    Obi prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and for strength and comfort for his family during the period of mourning.

    “May God Almighty, who called him home, grant him eternal rest in His kingdom and continue to bless his family always,” he added.

  • Kwankwaso consoles with family of Late Major General Rabe Abubakar in Katsina

    Kwankwaso consoles with family of Late Major General Rabe Abubakar in Katsina

    KANO, Nigeria (NPA) — Vice Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar (Rtd), following his tragic death while in captivity.

    The Katsina State Government announced on June 13, 2026, that General Abubakar, abducted alongside his wife, died while in the custody of bandits. His passing has drawn widespread grief across Nigeria’s military and political circles.

    Kwankwaso, a former Kano State Governor, described the late officer as “a gallant, patriotic, and dedicated officer who served Nigeria with honour, courage, and distinction throughout his career.”

    In a statement personally issued on Wednesday, he said prayers were offered for Allah’s mercy on Abubakar’s soul, comfort for his grieving family, and lasting peace and security across the nation. He also prayed for the swift recovery of Mrs Amina Abubakar, who has regained her freedom.

    “May Almighty Allah grant him Al‑Jannatul Firdaus and forgive his shortcomings. Ameen,” Kwankwaso added.

    Meanwhile, Newpost Africa reports that troops of the Nigerian Army, supported by the Nigerian Air Force, successfully rescued Mrs Abubakar during intensified search‑and‑rescue operations under Operation FASAN YAMMA.

    According to a statement signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director Defence Information, troops made contact with bandits at Tunga Village. In the encounter, Mrs Abubakar was shot before the criminals fled under overwhelming military pressure. She was immediately evacuated to a military hospital, where she is responding positively to treatment.

  • Kwankwaso mourns former ARTV, Radio Kano boss Adamu Ibrahim Getso

    Kwankwaso mourns former ARTV, Radio Kano boss Adamu Ibrahim Getso

    KANO, Nigeria (NPA) — Former Kano State Governor and Vice Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of veteran broadcaster and media administrator, Alhaji Adamu Ibrahim Getso.

    In a statement personally signed on Sunday, Kwankwaso described the late Getso as a distinguished public servant whose contributions to broadcasting and media development left an enduring legacy in Kano State.

    According to the former governor, Getso served with distinction as Managing Director of Abubakar Rimi Television (ARTV) and Managing Director of Radio Kano during his administration.

    “A seasoned broadcaster and accomplished media professional, his immense contributions to public communication, media development and the overall progress of Kano State will be remembered for generations,” Kwankwaso said.

    He noted that the deceased played a significant role in strengthening public information dissemination and advancing the growth of state-owned media institutions.

    Kwankwaso extended his condolences to the family of the late media executive, the people of Getso in Gwarzo Local Government Area, the government and people of Kano State, and members of the media community.

    “I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the people of Getso in Gwarzo Local Government, the entire Kano State and the broader media community on this profound loss,” he said.

    The former governor prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and comfort for those mourning his passing.

    “May Allah grant him eternal rest in Al-Jannah and grant his loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Kwankwaso added.

    The death of Alhaji Adamu Ibrahim Getso marks the end of a distinguished career in public broadcasting and media administration, during which he contributed significantly to the development of information and communication services in Kano State.

  • JUST IN: Five corps members, soldier die in Adamawa military vehicle, commercial bus collision

    JUST IN: Five corps members, soldier die in Adamawa military vehicle, commercial bus collision

    YOLA, Nigeria (NPA) — Tragedy struck in Adamawa State on Tuesday as six people, including four National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and a military officer, lost their lives in a devastating road crash involving a military gun truck and a commercial bus.

    The fatal accident occurred at about 1:50 p.m. along the Narehi axis of the Girei–Song road in Adamawa State.

    According to the Adamawa State Police Command, the military vehicle was travelling from Gombi towards Yola when it collided head-on with a commercial Hummer bus conveying five passengers from Yola to Mubi.

    In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, preliminary investigations indicate that the impact of the collision caused the commercial bus to overturn and burst into flames.

    “All five passengers aboard the Hummer bus were trapped in the vehicle and burnt to death after it caught fire following the collision,” the statement said.

    The police said preliminary identification revealed that four of the victims were serving members of the National Youth Service Corps posted to Adamawa State.

    Two of the deceased were identified as Suleuman Juliet and Usman Shuaibu, both indigenes of Kaduna State, while efforts are ongoing to identify the remaining victims.

    The command also confirmed that a military personnel attached to the gun truck died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.

    Police operatives, working alongside other emergency responders, swiftly arrived at the scene and evacuated the bodies to a hospital.

    Authorities said efforts were underway to identify the remaining victims and contact their families.

    Reacting to the tragedy, the Commissioner of Police in Adamawa State, CP Kabir Umar Hassan, extended his condolences to the bereaved families, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the National Youth Service Corps and all those affected by the incident.

    He sympathised with the families of the deceased and prayed for the repose of their souls.

    The police said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash were ongoing and assured the public that further updates would be provided as more information becomes available.

    The incident adds to growing concerns over road safety on Nigeria’s highways, where fatal crashes continue to claim lives despite repeated calls for stricter traffic enforcement and improved road infrastructure.

  • Sokoto Governor condoles Emir of Zuru over death of Hajiya Hajara Hussaini

    Sokoto Governor condoles Emir of Zuru over death of Hajiya Hajara Hussaini

    KEBBI, Nigeria (NPA) — Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu, has led a high-powered delegation to Zuru, Kebbi State, to commiserate with the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Sanusi Muhammad Mika’ilu, over the death of Hajiya Hajara Hussaini, popularly known as Innar Manir.

    The governor also extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, describing her passing as a significant loss to her family, the people of Kebbi State and the wider North-West region.

    In a statement on Monday, Aliyu expressed sadness over the demise of Hajiya Hussaini and urged the bereaved family to take solace in the will of Almighty Allah.

    “Her demise is a significant loss to her family, the people of Kebbi State and our wider region,” the governor said.

    “As we submit to the will of Almighty Allah, we pray that He, in His infinite mercy, forgives her shortcomings, grants her eternal repose in Aljannatul Firdaus and comforts all those she left behind.”

    Aliyu also prayed for continued unity and cordial relations among the people of the region.

    “May Allah strengthen the bonds of brotherhood between our people and reward the deceased with His boundless mercy. Ameen,” he added.

    The visit underscored the longstanding relationship between the governments and people of Sokoto and Kebbi states.