In remembrance of Sa'in Katsina, Alhaji Ahmadu Na-Funtua, we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual who has now answered the call of his creator. After a long and fulfilling life of over 90 years, he leaves behind a legacy of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Sa'in Katsina held the esteemed title for about five decades, having been appointed by the late Emir of Katsina, Sir Usman Nagogo.
Although I did not have the privilege of personally knowing Sa'i, I had a memorable encounter with him that instantly endeared him to me. His sense of humor and the reverence he commanded left a lasting impression. At the time, I served as the General Manager of Katsina State Television (KTTV), twenty years ago, when a Tafsir from the Katsina Emirate Council was scheduled for broadcast during the fasting period. The Emir then was late Alhaji Kabir Usman Nagogo.
Coincidentally, we had a routine quarterly change in our program schedule, and the Tafsir was rescheduled from the prime time belt of 10:00 p.m. to the children's programming belt at 7:00 p.m. This adjustment did not sit well with the Emirate Council, as 7 o'clock was the time for prayers and breaking the fast, which made it unsuitable for watching the Tafsir, especially for the Emir.
I was summoned to the Emirate Council to explain the sudden change, and I was apprehensive about the possible backlash from those around the Emir, who might perceive it as a sign of disrespect. However, both the late Emir and Sa'i handled the situation with wisdom and diplomacy, disarming any tension.
The Emir patiently listened to my explanation, acknowledging that we were the professionals who knew how to best schedule the programs. He expressed no problem with the change and encouraged us to find a solution that would not hinder our work. Sa'i, with his light-hearted nature, looked at me and jokingly remarked, "I'm sure you feel as if a ton of load has been lifted off you!" In Hausa, he said, "Wai! Na tabbata ji ka ke kamar an sauke ma ka babban nauyi!" This humorous remark elicited laughter from everyone present, including the Emir, diffusing the tension.
In that moment, I made a promise to the Emir that I would revert the program back to its original position, and I fulfilled that promise. This encounter left me with immense respect for both the Emir and Sa'i. Despite their authority, they chose not to condemn or criticize me. Sa'in Katsina was one of the individuals who made the Katsina Emirate a welcoming and accommodating place for all.
May Allah shower them both with mercy and blessings.
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