By Salisu Hassan, Ph.D
Yesterday, March 13, 2025, as I broke my fast in the evening, I received a WhatsApp message that left me in deep shock—Sheikh Zubairu Allaramma Funtua had passed away. Though Allah knows best, the news of his departure was a tremendous loss.
For over three decades, I knew Allaramma as a man dedicated to mentoring and uplifting people at the grassroots level. He began his journey as a Qur’anic teacher but grew into a respected investor, philanthropist, and elder statesman whose generosity knew no bounds.
It is difficult to quantify the number of people he supported with capital to start businesses or make investments. His mentorship produced many scholars, including Gwani Mustapha Zubairu (Alwassiyya). One of his close associates, Alhaji Ibrahim Alkali, described him as a man whose exemplary life is worthy of emulation. "He was always ready to assist the needy and offer advice drawn from his vast experience," he said.
Allaramma’s impact extended far and wide. Many individuals performed Hajj and Umrah through his support, and countless families secured homes thanks to his assistance. He also played a pivotal role in helping the less privileged get married.
His contributions to Izalatul Bidi’a Waikamatussunnah (JIBWIS) and its educational initiatives were profound. The establishment and development of Abdullahi Aminchi College of Advanced Studies, Funtua, also bore his imprint.
One of my most cherished memories with him was during my first Hajj in 2010. I met him at Kudai Masfala on my way to the Haram. He was overjoyed to see me and asked me to inform him before traveling to Madinah. Unfortunately, I forgot. Days later, in Madinah, he called and asked to meet near Baqiyya Cemetery. When we met, he warmly greeted me and generously gifted me some Saudi Riyals.
Our last encounter was on a Friday at Zaria Road Jumu’ah Mosque. After prayers, he shook hands with me and all my children, including my youngest, Hauwa.
Sheikh Zubairu Allaramma Funtua passed away on March 13 and was buried after Jumu’ah prayers on the 14th March 2025 in Funtua. He is survived by two wives, 20 children—both male and female—and numerous associates.
My deepest condolences go to his wives, children, and in particular, Hajiya Asma’u Zubairu, Mal. Sani Allaramma, Alhaji Ma’azu, Alhaji Salele, Mal. Mustapha Alwassiya, Alhaji Ibrahim Alkali, Alhaji Uzairu Dan’umma, Ambassador Abdullahi Aminchi, and Alhaji Abubakar Sama’ila Isa Funtua.
I extend my condolences to all his associates and the entire people of Funtua and Katsina State. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus.
Salisu Hassan, Ph.D
Writes from Abdullahi Aminchi Road, Funtua
Email: Salisu2015.sh@gmail.com
