Former Nigerian President Bereaved, Buhari Mourns

Mrs Maryamu Lami Dimka, elder sister to General Yakubu Gowon, former Military Head of State, is dead.

Dimka, who was wife to the Late Commissioner of Police, Mr SK Dimka is survived by children Mrs Elizabeth Rimdans, one time Resident Electoral Commissioner to Anambra & Bauchi States, Ms Margaret Dimka & Mr Philip Dimka, many grandchildren & great grandchildren.

Other surviving relations include Nigeria Airways Capt (Rtd), Moses Gowon & Dr Dawuda Gowon.

She was a Matron in the Women’s Hostel of the now Ahmadu Bello University in the 60s.

She was also active as a member & official of many organisations including The Nigeria Red Cross, Young Women’s Christian Association, Bible Translation, The Bible Society.

A member of the Horticultural Society, she was a great lover of gardening and a lover of music who was active in her Church choir until recent times.

President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled General Yakubu Gowon over the death of his older sister.

The President, in a statement issued Thursday by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, urged General Gowon and the family members she left behind to preserve her memories and legacies.

President Buhari said the deceased left behind a remarkable record of service and care as a Matron in the female hostel at Ahmadu Bello University in the 60s and would continue to be cherished for her active participation in many social and religious organizations, including Nigerian Red Cross Society, Young Women’s Christian Association, Bible Translation, Bible Society and Horticultural Society.
“She retained right family values and moral strength. She instilled a spirit of service in her children as seen through their philanthropic activities and an eagerness to give back to society.

“In this tragic hour, our hearts and prayer are with you and the entire family,” said the President.