Hadiza Jega, wife of Attahiru Jega, former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has died.
Jega’s family confirmed her death in a statement on Sunday, noting that she passed away in Abuja.
Bayero University Kano (BUK), where Jega once served as vice-chancellor, also acknowledged the loss in a Facebook post.
“Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. With total submission to the will of Allah, we announce the passing of the wife of our former Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Attahiru Jega, OFR,” the university wrote.
“Her Janazah will be held immediately after Zuhr prayer at the National Mosque, Abuja, today, Sunday, 5th April 2026.
“May Allah grant her Aljannatul Firdaus, forgive her shortcomings, and grant the family the strength and patience to bear this loss.”
Jega currently serves as co-chairman of the presidential livestock reforms implementation committee, special adviser to the president on livestock development, and pro-chancellor of Nasarawa State University and Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.
He is a professor of political science at BUK, where he served as deputy vice-chancellor (academic) from 1995 to 1996 before becoming the substantive vice-chancellor in September 2005.
He was appointed INEC chairman in 2010 and left office in 2015.
‘A WOMAN OF UNCOMMON GRACE’
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has condoled with with Jega over the death of his wife.
In a statement by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy to the president, Tinubu described the late Hadiza as a woman of uncommon grace and character.
The president noted that she served as a strong pillar of support to Jega throughout his years in public service, including his tenure as INEC chairman.
He also commended her contributions to education and community development, highlighting her impact beyond her immediate family.
According to the statement, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who attended the Janazah prayer for the deceased at the National Mosque in Abuja on Sunday, conveyed the president’s condolences to Jega and his family.
“Dear Professor Jega, it is with a heavy heart that I receive the news of the passing of your beloved wife of over 40 years. Hajiya was an exceptional woman,” the statement reads.
“I mourn this painful loss with you and your family and pray that God Almighty grant her Aljannatul Firdaus. I stand with you and your family at this difficult time.”
He also prayed for the repose of her soul and for strength and comfort for Jega and his family in their moment of grief.
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