Late HRH Gen. Abu Ali a pillar of Traditional Authority — Yahaya Bello
Former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, CON, has described the passing of the Etsu Bassa-Nge, His Royal Highness, Brigadier General Abu Ali (rtd), as a monumental loss, not only to Kogi State but to Nigeria as a whole.
Bello said the late Brigadier General was a courageous defender of the nation’s territorial integrity who served with uncommon patriotism, discipline, and genuine commitment.
As the paramount ruler of the Bassa-Nge Kingdom, Bello noted that the late Abu Ali was instrumental to the stability and relative peace enjoyed in his domain, recalling his close working relationship with him during his time as governor.
He described the late royal father as a man of peace whose reign was marked by profound humility, wisdom, and compassion.
He noted that Brigadier General Abu Ali (rtd) left an enduring legacy of leadership, distinguishing himself as a traditional ruler, a fine military officer, and a former Governor of Bauchi State, where his positive contributions remain evident to this day.
Bello prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the departed traditional ruler eternal rest and to grant his family, the Bassa-Nge Kingdom, and the entire Kogi State the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
Born on 6th September 1946, His Royal Highness Brigadier General Abu Ali (rtd) was a distinguished officer of the Nigerian Army who served in various commands and capacities.
He was Governor of Bauchi State from August 1990 to July 1992 during the military administration of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.
Ohiare Michael
Director, Yahaya Bello Media Office
- 24th November, 2025
