A Tribute to His Excellency late Danbaba Dan Fulani Suntai

·         Former Governor of Taraba State (1961–2017) you left Us on 28 June 2017 two days to your 56^th Birthday, which today marks 8 years 2 days since you departed.

It is with profound reverence, admiration, and a deep sense of loss that i pay tribute to my Boss late H.E Danbaba Dan Fulani Suntai, a towering statesman, compassionate leader, devoted family man,religious and a rare embodiment of humility, grace, and unwavering optimism.

Born on June 30, 1961,Late H.E Danbaba Suntai's life was marked by purpose and selfless service. From his humble beginnings in Taraba State to the highest office in the state's political hierarchy, he walked the path of duty with unmatched dedication, generosity, and love for his people. His passing left a void that time has yet to fill, but his memory continues to inspire those who were privileged to know him.

Late Governor Suntai led with a vision grounded in unity, equity, and development. As Governor of Taraba State from 2007 until the unfortunate plane crash in 2012, he worked tirelessly to uplift the lives of ordinary citizens. His leadership was not about self-aggrandizement or political showmanship; it was about impact. Under his stewardship, Taraba witnessed meaningful infrastructural development, agricultural initiatives, healthcare improvements, and educational reforms. He believed that leadership was not about wielding power, but about empowering people.

What truly set him apart was his inclusivity. In a time and place where divisions of tribe, religion, or ethnicity could easily sow discord, late Governor Suntai stood firm as a bridge-builder. He never saw people through the lens of race, religion, or class but capacity  to contribute which i'm a beneficiary. His cabinet appointments, policies, and actions consistently reflected this ideal. He made everyone feel seen, valued, and heard.

Those who knew late H.E Danbaba Suntai closely often describe him as a man with a heart too large for his body. His generosity was not merely financial—it was emotional, spiritual, and intellectual. He gave his time to the young and the old alike. He gave his ear to the weak and the strong. He gave his energy to causes that built others up, even at personal cost.

There are countless testimonies of families uplifted, students sponsored, and communities transformed through his acts of kindness. He never gave for show; he gave because it was in his nature. Whether in public office or private life,late Governor Suntai was a man who gave more than he took.

Despite holding high office and commanding respect across Nigeria, he never allowed his status to create distance. Governor Suntai remained approachable, grounded, and deeply humble. He greeted street vendors with the same warmth as he did political dignitaries. His staff recall a boss who would remember their birthdays, check in on their families, and ask after their wellbeing with genuine concern.

He was a man of peace. Even when faced with political storms or personal tragedies, late Danbaba chose dialogue over division, patience over provocation, and calm over chaos. His calm demeanor and disarming smile won hearts and resolved conflicts before they escalated. He believed that kindness was not weakness, but strength under control

After surviving a tragic plane crash in 2012, Danbaba Suntai endured one of life's harshest trials. But even through pain and struggle, he remained hopeful and dignified. He did not give in to bitterness or regret. His resilience became a testament to his enduring spirit. In those years, he taught us that true strength is not just about rising to power, but rising through pain.

His optimism was contagious. He believed in the future of Taraba State. He believed in the power of young people. He believed that Nigeria, with all her complexities, still had greatness ahead. And he lived that belief in word .

H.E late Danbaba Dan Fulani Suntai's legacy is one of love, service, and humanity. He is remembered not just as a former governor, but as a father to many, a mentor to rising leaders, a man of peace, and a symbol of hope. He has left indelible footprints in the sands of time—on roads he built, on hearts he healed, and on lives he touched.

I will remember a man who gave his all, even when the odds were against him. A man who never sought praise, yet deserved every accolade. A man whose life, though cut short, was richer and more impactful than many twice its length.

To those of us who mourn him, let us not dwell only in sorrow, but in gratitude—that we lived in the time of late H.E Danbaba Dan Fulani Suntai. Let us carry forward his legacy by leading with compassion, giving selflessly, and loving without condition. May his memory continue to be a blessing, and may his ideals remain a guiding light for generations to come

Rest in peace, Your Excellency. You lived well. You led well. You loved well.

Taraba, and Nigeria, will never forget you.

Aminu Bello Babale

(Mutawallen Mambilla)