TRIBUTE: Dr Bala Takaya 1930

TRIBUTE: Dr Bala Takaya 1930 - 2018

Bala John Takaya (2nd Left) at a function recently

By Nasiru Jagaba

Again, with rude shock, death has come upon us in the early hours of Sunday, 27th May, 2018. It is with deepest regret that the Middle Belt Youth Wing of Middle Belt Forum mourns the death of our President, Father, Mentor, and a tireless advocate of equity, fairness and justice, Dr Bala John Takaya, the President of Middle Belt Forum has silently closed the door of life and departed from us, never to return. 68 years old Takaya, an unparalleled University Senior Lecturer, a distinct politician who served as the Secretary to State Government of the old Gongola State, a member of the 1987 Political Bureau. On the fight to restore democratic system of governance, he worked hand in hand with Chief Solomon Lar. Also, in 1999 he was the governorship candidate of the All People’s Party, APP later ANPP. He is much esteemed in the community of Middle Belt and generally recognized as one whose acts and deeds were worthy of emulation.

For all of us as Middle Belt youths, he has and always will be our role model. The example he set will long continue to influence and inspire us. We found him at all time a man of understanding, sympathy, learning, integrity, and someone who groomed youths to leaders of today.

As we go through this busy life, each striving selfishly to survive, becoming callous to the suffering of our people, it is remarkable and unique to meet a personality like that of Bala Takaya. We know that the impress he left on us is a durable one. We found in him to be one of nature’s own noblemen. We don’t think there is any man who came in contact with him who didn’t add to his own determination to be better and more sympathetic and generous to his fellowman. His passing away leaves a void in our hearts and the organization that will be difficult to fill.

We extend to the members of his bereaved family our heartfelt condolences and pray that in years that lie ahead the good Lord will sustain them and give them peace and health.

Adieu Sir.

Nasiru Jagaba is Youth Leader, Middle Belt Forum

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