Hajiya Saratu Shagari, Last Surviving Wife of Former President Shehu Shagari, Dies at 89

The family of Nigeria’s first democratically elected President, the late Alhaji Shehu Shagari, has announced the passing of his last surviving wife, Hajiya Saratu Shehu Shagari, who died at the age of 89. Her demise marks the final chapter for the late President’s immediate family leadership.

Dependable NG reports that the solemn announcement was made in an official statement issued by Captain Bala Shagari, the late President’s eldest son and the Sarkin Mafaran Shagari. According to the statement, Hajiya Saratu passed away around 3:00 p.m. on Monday, November 10, 2025, following a prolonged illness.

Captain Bala Shagari conveyed the family’s deep sorrow in the announcement: “With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Hajiya Saratu Shagari, the last surviving wife of former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, GCFR, Turakin Sokoto.”

Hajiya Saratu was highly revered within the Shagari family and the wider Sokoto community. Her son, Capt. Bala Shagari, paid tribute to her enduring character, describing her as “an embodiment of grace, humility, and quiet strength, who lived a life of dignity.” Her passing comes years after the death of her husband, President Shagari, who governed the country during the Second Republic (1979 to 1983) and died in December 2018 at the age of 93. Details regarding the funeral arrangements for the late matriarch will be announced by the family in due course.