In a heartfelt ceremony that brought together dignitaries, politicians, and citizens from across Niger State and beyond, the late Honorable Joseph Haruna Duza, a former Nigerian Air Force officer and member representing Munya constituency in the Niger State House of Assembly, was laid to rest. On Wednesday, at the Air Force Protestant Church, 013 Response Base in Minna, the capital of Niger State, many gathered to pay their last respects to a man who had dedicated his life to serving both his country and his people.
Joseph Haruna Duza, who passed away at 61 after a brief illness, had been the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Security and Intelligence in the Assembly. He used his military background to address pressing security issues, particularly in his constituency, Munya, which has been severely affected by banditry. His contributions to maintaining peace and security will be remembered for years to come.
The Niger State Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, led the State Executive Council at the solemn funeral service. The Deputy Governor, along with commissioners, advisers, and other top political figures, honored the late Assembly member, reflecting on his steadfast dedication to his constituency and to the state.
State Assembly Speaker, Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, along with all Assembly members, paid tribute to their colleague. The Speaker described Duza as a man deeply committed to the well-being of his constituency, a politician who offered unbiased and robust contributions during his time in the House. We will forever miss him, the Speaker said, remembering Duza’s passion and dedication.
Despite being a member of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Duza was praised for his bipartisan approach, supporting the administration’s renewed hope agenda. His willingness to rise above party lines for the sake of his people’s security and welfare spoke volumes about his character. His short time in the Assembly had a lasting impact, especially with his efforts to combat insecurity in Munya.
Reflecting on the life of the late lawmaker, Deputy Governor Garba emphasized how Duza’s military experience helped him navigate the ongoing security challenges in Munya. He used his military background and experience to offer help in the area of insecurity to his people and the state in general. His immense contributions to the peace and development of his constituency will surely be missed, he said.
Duza’s life was one of sacrifice and service, as also highlighted during the sermon by Rev. Joseph C. Yakubu. Drawing from the Holy Scriptures, the Reverend reminded politicians and leaders that life is fleeting, and it is their legacy that will endure after they are gone. "No matter how long you lived, the end will surely come because there is time to be born and the time to die. The question is, how do we live our lives here on earth because there is purpose for every human existence," Rev. Yakubu preached, urging everyone present to leave a positive legacy behind.
After the service in Minna, Duza’s body was transported to his hometown, Chibani, in Munya Local Government Area. There, amidst tight security, his remains were laid to rest with full military honors. The people of Munya and beyond bid a final farewell to a man who, through his dual roles as a soldier and politician, committed his life to their peace, security, and development.
Though his time in the Niger State House of Assembly was short, Joseph Haruna Duza’s impact was profound. His legacy of service, integrity, and dedication to his people will continue to inspire those who knew him and those he served. The state, his constituency, and his family will surely miss him, but the positive change he created will endure. May his soul rest in peace.