Taraba Gov Mourns Gassol NUT Chairman, Describes Death as Colossal Loss
By Henry AgbuÂ
Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has described the death of the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Gassol Local Government Area Branch, Mr. Halilu Emmanuel Sani, as a colossal loss to the education sector and the state at large.
The governor made the remark during the funeral service held at the United Methodist Church, Mutum-Biyu—the headquarters of Gassol Local Government Area.
He was represented by the Commissioner for Rural and Urban Development, Hon. Peter Julius Vau, who presented letters of condolence to the bereaved family and the leadership of the NUT.
Governor Kefas encouraged the grieving family to take solace in God, assuring them of his continued support.
In an emotional tribute, the State Chairman of the NUT, Comrade Solomon Nathan, described the late Sani as a humble and dedicated teacher who exemplified loyalty, humility, and respect for his seniors.
He recounted the challenges the deceased faced under the previous administration, revealing that his salary was withheld for one year and six months, saying despite that hardship, he remained committed to his duties until the assumption of the current administration, which cleared the outstanding arrears.
In his exhortation, the guest speaker, Reverend Dr. Philip Micah Dopah, reminded mourners that death is not the end but a transition.
He urged believers to remain steadfast in faith, noting that life’s challenges are temporary and that God is aware of their pain during trying times.
Other tributes poured in from the Chairman of Gassol Local Government Council, Hon. Abubakar Saidu Usman; the Education Secretary of Gassol LGA, Hashimu Sarkinyama; and the State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Peter Jediel, among others.
Late Halilu Emmanuel Sani, aged 52, died on July 14, 2025, in a tragic motor accident while en route to a solidarity burial ceremony in Takum.
He is survived by his wife, mother, five children, and eleven dependents.
