Thousands in Kano, Nigeria, performed absentia funeral prayers (Salatul Ga'ib) on Saturday for the late business magnate and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Dantata. He passed away in Dubai at 94, and his final wish was to be buried in the holy city of Madinah, Saudi Arabia.

The special prayers, held at the Umar Bin Khattab Mosque, were led by Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, Chairman of the Kano State Council of Ulamas. The large congregation, including figures like Deputy Senate President Sen. Barau Jibrin, paid their respects to the departed statesman. Sheikh Khalil explained that Salatul Ga'ib is offered for Muslims who die far from home or in locations where immediate funeral rites aren't possible.

Dantata was celebrated as a devout Muslim and philanthropic leader, known for his humility and extensive contributions to society. His family confirmed his desire to be laid to rest in Madinah next to his wife, Rabi'a.

However, according to his personal secretary, Mustapha Abdullahi Junaidu, bureaucratic delays in Saudi Arabia, particularly over the weekend, have complicated the immediate transfer of his remains. The Nigerian Federal Government is now assisting to expedite the necessary approvals.

Junaidu noted that while they are diligently working to fulfill Dantata's final wish for a Madinah burial, the family might have to consider bringing his body back to Kano for burial if the delays persist. This ensures he can be laid to rest without undue postponement.

This situation highlights the challenges families face when fulfilling such deeply personal final requests across international borders, especially during a period of mourning.

Source: https://muslimnews.com.ng/2025/06/29/thousands-holds-absentia-prayers-in-kano-as-dantata-to-be-buried-in-madinah-saudi-arabia/