It is the popular Chinese adage which posits, “To die and continue to remain in the hearts of those left behind is not to die”. This tribute is aimed at remembering the exemplary lives of Pa Dariye Defwan and Kaka Saratu Dariye, parents of His Exellency Chief Senator Joshua Chibi Dariye, the former Executive Governor of Plateau as well as a Distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who served Plateau Central Senatorial Zone in the Red Chamber of the Senate with diligence.
Pa Dariye and his beautiful wife, Kaka Saratu, hailed from the Mushere tribe in Bokkos local government area of Plateau state. Interestingly, both are community leaders in their own right who have helped in given succour to the greater majority, especially the less privileged, widows, orphans and other vulnerable members of the society they lived. To the glory of God, Pa Dariye and Mama Saratu are strong members of Church of Christ in Nations ( COCIN).
It is on record that Pa Dariye was one of the early convert to Christianity in Bokkos. Him and his wife were humble to a fault as their simplicity and spartan lifestyle endeared them to thousands of people in the community they lived. Also worthy of note is that they were humble farmers who lived simple but honest lifestyle which earned them a lifetime respect in the entire community. As one of the early convert to Christianity in his community, Pa Dariye helped in the enrolment of his son, Joshua Dariye (Kawum Mushere), into primary school for western education in Horop Village, Mushere District of Bokkos local government area.
Kaka Saratu was a woman of remarkable strength and grace. Her warmth and kindness touched the lives of countless individuals and her unwavering compassion was a source of comfort to all who sought her counsel. She approached each day with a spirit of resilience and optimism, and her enduring love for her family and friends knew no bounds. Kaka Saratu’s legacy of empathy and generosity will continue to inspire us for generations to come. Pa Dariye Defwan was a pillar of wisdom and integrity in our community. His steadfast dedication to his family and unwavering commitment to his values served as a guiding light for all who crossed his path. His wisdom and gentle demeanor endeared him to everyone he encountered and his legacy of honor and selflessness will continue to resonate with all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Although they have both left us, we take solace in the knowledge that their spirits will live on in the memories and hearts of all who loved them. Their legacies will endure, and the impact of their lives will continue to echo through the countless lives they touched. And as we bid our final farewell, let us honour the lives of Kaka Saratu and Pa Dariye Defwan by embracing the values they embodied. Let us strive to emulate their kindness, compassion, and unwavering strength, and let us carry their legacy forward with grace and dignity. Let us be comforted with the knowledge that they left indelible marks on our lives and on the world around us. May their spirits find peace and may their memories continue to inspire and uplift us in the days and years to come. Though they may be physically gone, their love and light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts, guiding us through the darkness and reminding us of the enduring power of love and compassion.
Like in the words of the legendary Williams Shakespeare, “The World is like a stage, everyone will play his part and go”…, Pa Dariye Defwan and Kaka Saratu Dariye enduring sefless and examplary services to mankind will continue to remain in the annals of history and letters of life which historians consider as imperishable. Rest in peace, Kaka Saratu and Pa Dariye Defwan. You will be dearly missed but your legacy will live on forever.
Adieu, Papa and Mama
Fatai Ibrahim
