By Muhammad Nur Tijani

Malam Yusuf Lawal, the late elder brother to the Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali M. Ali, was on Wednesday buried in Kano according to Islamic rites.

Late Lawal, 61, died on Wednesday following a protracted illness at his residence in Tudun-Wada Quarters of Nasarawa Local Government Area.

The Janazah (funeral) prayer was conducted at the Tudun-Wada graveyard and was attended by NAN MD, family members, friends, and well-wishers, including members of the media community.

The remains were later interred at the Tudun-Wada cemetery in accordance with Islamic injunctions.

In a brief remark, Ali expressed gratitude to all those who attended the funeral and prayed for the repose of his brother’s soul.

He described his sibling as a fantastic individual who loved family and assumed a fatherly role after their parent’s death.

“He was always there for the family and relatives and he was more like a friend,” the managing director said.

Ali expressed deep sorrow, stating that his brother was a close confidant and partner, almost like a twin.

“I feel exposed and alone due to my brother’s passing, especially since he represented the family while I was away for my career.

“I admire my brother’s simple, frugal life and his dedication to family, including extended ties.

“Everyone will eventually pass away and finds solace in the Quranic verse about death, ours is just a matter of time before we are reunited,” Ali said.

Similarly, the eldest son of the deceased, Ahmad Yusuf, described his father as a good man.

He explained that his father took very good care of them and he would continue to pray for him.

Late Yusuf is survived by one wife and six children. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani