Tragedy struck as bandits killed Professor Yusuf Saidu, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research, Innovation, and Development at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS).
The school in a Monday statement said the late Saidu was killed on his way to Kaduna from his Sokoto base.
“He was attacked and killed by Bandits on his to Kaduna from Sokoto state. A man of integrity, religion, dedication, and courage.”
The school described his demise as a “painful loss” to the university, praying to God to rest his soul.
“May Allah accept his soul and forgive his sin but this is a painful loss to all members of the University community and the Academia at large,” the school said.
Students and colleagues of the deceased have also taken to social media to mourn the late professor, sharing stories of how he positively impacted their lives.
Uchenna Emelife, a former student who convened the Sokoto Book and Art Festival (SOBAFest) while he was a student, said the late professor supported and guided the group of students. Since the first edition in 2021, SOBAFest has continued as an annual event in the state.
“I remember our first meeting in 2021 and his keen interest in SOBAFest. One of the very few academics who held our hands and patted our backs when it seemed like we were orphans without direction,” Mr Emelife wrote.
Salahuddeen Bello Bala, a Social Media manager of the university in his tribute described him as a supportive pillar and respected religious leader.
He posted on his Facebook page saying; “Immediate Behind us is late Prof. Yusuf Saidu DVC RI&D some few days to the Udus 2024 convocation. When I wanted to snap a picture with the VC, he was commending me for a job well done as he always does usually. Some of our conversations are rather confidential but the efforts he has made for me to excel in the discharge of my duty as the University Social media handler are enormous.
“Each time you meet him it is a whole motivational moment stating to me how proud he is of my delivery and encourage me to keep it up. Very soft and religious; one of the leaders of many Islamic communities in Sokoto state.
“When he wants to direct me to do some work he always asks politely like Salahuddeen please can you help us do this or that. Oh Allah as easy going as this humble servant is to you may you make his judgement easy in his grave and to come for him with mercy as he is merciful to his subordinates.”
A colleague who is the present Vice Chancellor of Al-Qalam University, Prof. Nasiru Yauri expressed his condolences saying; “Lailaaha illallahu wahdahu laa sharikalahu, lahul mulku wa lahul hamdu, yuhyii wa yumitu, wa huwa alaa kulli shai’in ƙadir.
