Alhaji Umaru Gassol Dies at 97, Senator, Reps Member, PDP Chairman, Others Mourn

 Jalingo  is in mourning following the passing of Alhaji Umaru Gassol, a respected elder statesman and prominent leader of the Muri Emirate Council, who died on March 5, 2025, at the age of 97. His death, after a brief illness, has left a significant void in the community, where he was known for his wisdom, generosity, and lifelong dedication to community development.

A large crowd gathered at Muri Emir Palace in Jalingo on the morning of March 6, 2025, to pay their last respects to the late Alhaji Gassol. His funeral prayer was attended by family members, friends, and well-wishers from all corners of the state, a testament to the respect he commanded throughout his life. His burial, in accordance with Islamic rites, marked the end of a remarkable journey that saw him touch the lives of many.

Among those who mourned his passing were Senator Shu'aibu Isa Lau, representing Taraba North, and Sadiq Abbas Tafida, Member of the House of Representatives for Jalingo, Yorro, and Zing Federal Constituency. Both leaders extended their condolences to the Muri Emirate Council and the Gasol family, acknowledging the significant loss of a man who played an instrumental role in the development of the state and the peace-building efforts of his community.

"I extend my deepest condolences to the Muri Emirate Council and the Gasol family," said Senator Shu'aibu Isa Lau. "Alhaji Umaru Gassol was an embodiment of wisdom and integrity, whose contributions to the state will be remembered for generations."

Sadiq Abbas Tafida also offered heartfelt sympathy to the family, noting that the elder statesman's loss would be deeply felt by all, especially within the Muri Emirate. "He was a pillar of strength and wisdom, and his leadership will remain an inspiration to all of us," Tafida remarked.

The PDP State Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Bawa, also visited the grieving family to offer his condolences. He described Alhaji Gassol as a man of integrity whose service to the state and its people would never be forgotten. "Alhaji Umaru Gassol leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, selfless service, and a life dedicated to the well-being of his people," said Bawa.

Prince Aliyu Husseini Mafindi, the Chairman of the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA) in Taraba State, spoke highly of the late Alhaji Gassol's contributions. "He was an elder statesman who greatly influenced the Muri Emirate and the development of Taraba State at large," Mafindi said. "His absence will be felt, but his legacy will continue to guide us."

Alhaji Umaru Gassol's life was one of service, not only to his family but also to his community and state. A father to 28 children, grandfather to over 120 grandchildren, and husband to three wives, Alhaji Gassol leaves behind a large and blessed family. Among his children is Ahmed Umar Gassol, a veteran journalist and Director of Operations at Rock FM, who has made significant contributions to the media industry. Through him and his siblings, Alhaji Gassol's legacy of integrity, service, and dedication lives on.

As the community continues to mourn, the impact of Alhaji Gassol's life is evident in the many tributes pouring in from across Taraba State. His kindness, wisdom, and leadership will remain a beacon of inspiration for those who knew him.

In a heartfelt statement, Yahaya Umar Gassol, a family member, expressed the family's deep gratitude to all those who have shown their support during this difficult time. "The love and kindness shown to our family during this time of loss have been a great source of comfort," he said. "We deeply appreciate everyone who has prayed with us and mourned with us."

As the people of Taraba State remember Alhaji Umaru Gassol, they celebrate the life of a man whose contributions to his family, community, and state will never be forgotten. His legacy of love, leadership, and selfless service to the people of Taraba will endure for generations to come.

The family, friends, and the people of Taraba State pray for Allah's mercy on his soul and for comfort to those he left behind. May he be granted Jannatul Firdaus, and may his family find solace in the beautiful memories he created throughout his long and impactful life.