Initially set out to be an emotional event emblematic of mourning and sober reflection in honour of Hajia Yaya Salamatu Jibrin Zololo, Mother of Hon Bashir Lawandi Datti, the Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, the sincerity, truthfulness and unrivalled love for her family and community development without discrimination dominated tributes as sympathizers from all walks of life from within and outside the state recount the poignant legacy of unconquerable spirit of relentless dedication radiating through the children she raised
Leading the football fraternity on the Plateau to share in the moment of grief of the Datti’s family was the unassuming and dynamic State Chairman of the Plateau State Football Association, Hon Dr Suleiman Yahaya Kwande. Hon Kwande on behalf of himself, the Board, Congress and football lovers extolled the good virtues of the matriarch whom he described as the rallying point of youth in terms of distress. Kwande while submitting to the will of the Almighty Allah said “if death were to be compromised, the entire community would have done so, for Mama was a source of peace and hospitability who treated everyone fairly with uncommon love”
Responding on behalf of the family, husband of the deceased, Alh Bala Datti (former Mighty Jets International Player) thanked the football family for their show of love and solidarity, saying they are consoled and comforted by the visit. While Saleh Bature, a board member representing the Players Union and Alh Mohammadu Sani aka PRT were leading prayers for mama, Nasarawa State delegation led by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development in Nasarawa State arrived signifying a great moment of reunion, bringing back old memories when the two states were still together. It was not surprising, though, having people coming from all over the federation because of Mama’s affection for all an sundry
The PFA Chairman was accompanied by the 1st Vice Chairman, Hon Simon Ezra Godit, 2nd Vice Chairman, Hon Patrick Habu Pakwai, and other board members including Alh Saleh Bature, Sammy Adesoji, Godfrey Ayuba, Jonah Mafwalal. Congress members on ground were Miri Timnan Nyantau aka M.T.N, FA Chairman Langtang North, Sani Nasiru, FA Chairman Jos North, while the secretariat staff were led by the Secretary of PFA, Pastor Isah Mohammed, Kefas Kahansum Wapdiyel, Assistant Secretary General, Audu Manjah, Accountant. Stakeholders on ground included Alh Abubakar Maigoro and Coach Sani Mohammed “Chaji”
