Governor Radda Mourns Former Permanent Secretary Abu Danmalam Karofi, “Raya Karkaran Katsina”
ISSN: 2354-4481
By Grace Chidimma Ibe
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired career civil servant, community leader and former Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Abu Danmalam Karofi, popularly known as ADK and fondly called “Raya Karkaran Katsina.”
Alhaji Abu Danmalam Karofi died on Monday, August 10, 2026, after a short illness.
In a condolence message, Governor Radda described the deceased as a distinguished public servant who dedicated about 35 years of his life to serving the people of the old Kaduna and Katsina States.
The Governor said Karofi’s extensive career in public service was marked by commitment, experience and dedication, particularly in the area of grassroots administration and community development.
According to him, the late civil servant made significant contributions to the growth and development of Katsina State and left behind a legacy that would continue to be remembered by the people he served.
“Alhaji Abu Danmalam Karofi was a committed and experienced public servant whose contributions to the development of Katsina State, particularly in the area of grassroots administration, will continue to be remembered,” Governor Radda said.
Alhaji Abu Danmalam Karofi was a career civil servant whose professional journey spanned approximately three and a half decades. He served in the public service of the old Kaduna State before the creation of Katsina State and subsequently continued his service in Katsina.
One of the notable positions he held was that of Permanent Secretary and Special Adviser on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during the administration of former Katsina State Governor, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
In that capacity, Karofi played an important role in overseeing the affairs of the state’s 34 local government councils, bringing his administrative experience to bear on grassroots governance and local government affairs.
He was also appointed Head of the Inter-Ministerial Intervention Committee for the MAFITA Programme during the administration of former Governor Aminu Bello Masari.
Beyond his formal responsibilities in government, Karofi was actively involved in community affairs and youth development. He was associated with the United Union of Youth Association and was recognised for his interest in community development, public advocacy and issues affecting ordinary citizens.
Governor Radda further acknowledged the deceased’s contributions to promoting good governance, rural development and community wellbeing, describing him as a respected figure whose influence extended beyond the civil service.
“His wealth of experience, wisdom and commitment to public service made him a respected figure among colleagues, community leaders and the people he served,” the Governor added.
The Governor said Karofi’s death was a significant loss to Katsina State, particularly to the public service and communities where he made meaningful contributions during his lifetime.
He extended his condolences to the immediate family, relatives, former colleagues, community leaders and associates of the deceased, urging them to find strength in the legacy he left behind.
Governor Radda also prayed Almighty Allah to forgive Alhaji Abu Danmalam Karofi’s shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
The condolence message was signed by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to the Katsina State Governor, on August 10, 2026.
