The Nigerian Army, government officials and the entire Bassa-Nge Kingdom on Wednesday paid their last respects to retired Brig.-Gen. Abu Ali, former Military Administrator of Bauchi State and traditional ruler of the Bassa-Nge people.
Ali, who died on Monday at the age of 82, was laid to rest in Gboloko, Bassa Local Government Area of Kogi State, following Islamic rites and full military honours.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, represented by the Commander of 12 Brigade Lokoja, Brig.-Gen. Kasim Sidi, conveyed condolences to the family, describing the late officer as “a beacon of honour, a pillar of military ethics, and a leader whose selfless dedication will continue to inspire generations.”
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, represented by the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd.), said Ali’s death was a loss not only to Kogi State but to the entire country, describing him as a custodian of unity and development.
A funeral oration delivered on behalf of the COAS traced Ali’s military journey from his enlistment in 1963 to his retirement in 1999 as a Brigadier-General. His career included appointments such as:
Squadron Commander, 3 Reconnaissance Regiment
Deputy Adjutant and Quartermaster General
Military Administrator, Bauchi State
Deputy Military Secretary I
Director of Training, TRADOC
Commander, 15 ECOMOG Brigade
Deputy Chief of Intelligence, Defence Intelligence Agency
Commandant, Armoured Corps Centre & School
The late monarch was also remembered for his contributions to youth empowerment, education, communal cohesion and national service. He had undergone military training in the UK, Pakistan, India and the United States.
The ceremony also recalled his son, the late Lt-Col. Muhammad Abu-Ali, hailed as a war hero in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency.
The event featured final prayers, the lowering of the national flag, and presentation of national colours to the next of kin. Senior military officers, naval representatives, traditional rulers and religious leaders were among those in attendance.
The Nigerian Army extended condolences to the family, the Bassa-Nge Kingdom and all Nigerians, describing Ali as a patriot, statesman and symbol of honour.
