Bauchi electoral chairman dies after illness, Governor Bala Mohammed mourns his legacy of integrity and leadership in grassroots democracy
Bauchi electoral chairman dies following a brief illness in Abuja, sparking a wave of tributes from state officials and community leaders.
Also read: Jigawa PDP Mourns Buhari’s Death, Hails His National Legacy
The death of Alhaji Ahmed Makama Hardawa, Chairman of the Bauchi State Independent Electoral Commission (BASIEC), was announced on Wednesday through a statement by Mukhtar Gidado, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Bala Mohammed.
Governor Mohammed expressed deep sorrow and described the loss as profound, extending his heartfelt condolences to Hardawa’s family, colleagues, and the entire Bauchi State.
According to Gidado, the late chairman passed away on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of transparency and devotion to democratic principles.
“Late Alhaji Ahmed Makama Hardawa was a distinguished statesman, an accomplished public servant, and a patriotic Nigerian whose meritorious service to Bauchi State and the nation at large left a lasting legacy,” the statement read.
Hardawa previously served as a Resident Electoral Commissioner in both Taraba and Nasarawa states.
During those tenures, he earned national recognition for conducting credible elections and upholding the principles of fairness and diligence.
His approach to public service was defined by unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to the rule of law.
As chairman of BASIEC, Hardawa played a pivotal role in advancing grassroots democracy through the implementation of transparent local government elections.
Under his stewardship, Bauchi State witnessed steady improvements in institutional electoral processes, which earned him the respect of political stakeholders and the general public alike.
Late Alhaji Ahmed Makama Hardawa was a distinguished statesman… whose meritorious service left a lasting legacy.
“His commitment to the rule of law and institutional development earned him the respect of colleagues, political actors, and the general public,” Gidado added.
Governor Mohammed described Hardawa as a man of wisdom, humility, and exceptional leadership, noting that his contribution to governance came at a critical time in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
He said the deceased’s service orientation, especially in strengthening state-level electoral institutions, would be remembered for years to come.
The governor further conveyed his condolences to the Bauchi State Independent Electoral Commission, Hardawa’s family, friends, and the entire people of Hardawa and Misau Emirate Councils.
According to Islamic rites, the funeral prayer (Janazah) for the late chairman was scheduled for 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the Emir’s Palace in Bauchi.
Hardawa’s passing is viewed as a significant loss to not just Bauchi but to Nigeria’s broader democratic architecture.
Colleagues have described him as a rare breed of civil servant who placed the interests of the public above personal gain.
In honour of his memory, several civic groups have called on the government to institutionalise some of the reforms he championed, especially regarding voter engagement and grassroots electoral transparency.
The Governor concluded his tribute with a solemn prayer: “May Almighty Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, grant him eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus, and give his loved ones the strength to bear this great loss.”
Also read: Tinubu Honours Awujale’s Legacy, Recalls Prophetic Blessing, Unity Call
The Bauchi electoral chairman dies amid a period of political recalibration in the state, underscoring the vacuum his passing leaves in both governance and electoral integrity.
