*** As Plateau Sports Commissioner calls death national loss
By Harry Awurumibe, Editor, Abuja Bureau
Tears and wailing filled the air as the remains of the former Super Falcons Head Coach, Alhaji Ismaila Mabo, who died in the early hours of Monday was lowered to the grave at 10:20 am at late Alhaji Salihu Nakande’s resident located on Bauchi road, Jos, the Plateau state capital.
The Burial of Coach Mabo which was done in accordance with Islamic laws was witnessed by the representatives of Plateau government led by the state Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Dung Dalyop and Director of Sports Simon Moven.
Speaking after Coach Mabo’s body was commited to the mother earth, Commissioner Daylop described of the veteran football personality as a big loss to not only Plateau state but Nigeria generally.
According to him, the government and people of Plateau state are pained for the demise of Coach Mabo whom he described as an accomplished footballer, coach and administrator, pointing out that his death has robbed the state of an important son.
Said he: “The government of Plateau state under the able leadership of Simon Bako Lalong and the entire people of Plateau state are devastated on learning of the death of our respected football icon, Alhaji Ismaila Mabo. The Governor has already put a call across to his immediate family and has sent to us to be at the burial before he will come physically”.
The Commissioner also said that the presence of the government officials showed how highly the state hold Mabo who was the Chairman of the Board of Plateau State Sports Council at a point, adding that he will be remembered for his good works in sports and football in particular in the state and Nigeria.
Daylop however said the state government which currently employ one of Mabo’s sons will continue to support the family he left behind in anyway possible.
Also, commenting on the death of the former Mighty Jets of Jos football club player and ex- Green Eagles forward, Director of Sports, Moven described Mabo as his mentor, revealing that he taught him the rudiments of sports administration.
“Mabo was a perfect gentleman, detrabalised Nigerian and one who did not discriminate against Christians although he was born a Muslim. He was a good player and coach. He was there for everyone who came to him no matter where he or she came from. We shall surely miss him”.
