FLASHBACK: I No Longer Enjoy Life – Aminu Dantata
Elder statesman and Kano-born billionaire businessman, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, who died on Saturday at the age of 94, had once revealed that he no longer found pleasure in life and was only waiting for his “glorious exit.”
Dantata made the emotional remark in 2022 while receiving the then Vice Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Kashim Shettima, at his Kano residence. At the time, he was 91 years old.
In a moment of deep personal reflection, the respected philanthropist said, “Honestly, as I am right now, I am just waiting for my time. I no longer enjoy life anymore. I hope I depart this world in good faith.”
He went further to say he had lived a full life, having interacted with people from across all states in Nigeria, but lamented that only a handful of his lifelong friends were still alive.
“From a youthful age, I had the privilege of meeting many people and engaging in friendships across the country. But now, I can hardly call out ten who are still alive,” he noted.
Dantata also used the occasion to seek forgiveness and extend the same.
“I hope I did not offend anyone in life. If I offended anyone, I hope they find it in their hearts to forgive me. If anybody has offended me, I have forgiven them,” he added.
The business mogul, visibly frail at the time, also expressed sadness that he was the last surviving member of his immediate family, stating that he now lived with only his grandchildren.
Despite the sombre tone of his message, Dantata prayed for the peace and unity of the country.
“May God not leave us with our efforts alone; we pray for His continued guidance and protection,” he said.
The visit by Shettima was part of his consultation tour ahead of the 2023 general elections. He was accompanied by the then Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, as well as other northern political heavyweights, including General Lawal Jafaru Isah (rtd), Musa Gwadabe and elder statesman Tanko Yakasai.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
