The phrase “Sai-Baba-Ta-Gani” has become widely used among the people, especially in recent times when labor union strikes have increased. But do you know how it originated in the Hausa language?

Here is the history behind this expression, as narrated by Jarman Kano, Isah Hashim, to the late Tijjani Ado Ahmad, the host of Barka da Hantsi on Freedom Radio, Kano.

Historical Background

The phrase dates back to the era of World War II (1939–1945), which Hausa speakers often refer to as Yakin Hitila or Yakin Burma.

At the time, Nigeria was under British colonial rule, and the British launched widespread propaganda to recruit young men into the army. One of the promises made to encourage enlistment was that any soldier who returned from the war would be appointed as the chief of his hometown.

This promise led many young men to eagerly join the military, hoping to attain chieftaincy. Interestingly, many recruits from Northern Nigeria aspired to become the Emir of Kano rather than the chiefs of their respective hometowns. As a result, they often registered with the name "Kano" attached to their names, leading to instances where soldiers were identified as Ali Kano, Idi Kano, Mamman Kano, despite not speaking Hausa fluently.

The Reality Unfolds

After the war ended, the British abandoned their initial promise and instead offered the returning soldiers positions in the police force.

These newly recruited police officers, many of whom had limited knowledge of Hausa, were known for their integrity and refusal to accept bribes.

Whenever they arrested an offender, and the individual attempted to plead for mercy or offer a bribe, they would firmly restrain him and say:
“Sai-Baba-Ta-Gani.”

This phrase meant that they would not release the suspect until their superior officer—whom they referred to as Baba—had seen him and taken the necessary action.

Over time, the phrase became a common Hausa expression, meaning that a matter will not be concluded until an authority figure is aware of it and takes action.