I wish I could write a long dirge to immortalise Ali Kwara. I still can’t comprehend why tall, straight Iroko trees don’t enjoy long life in the forest. More often, ant takes down the giant elephant. This is miracles. Ali Kwara has dared many devils, drank water with lions’ skulls and pulled down the monsters tormenting our lives.
The Bauchi State indigene from Azare, Katagum Local Government specialised in fighting criminals. Alone, he arrested kidnappers and presented them to the agents of the law. Apart from being a career hunter, who fought the most dangerous animals back-to-back, he was friendly, approachable and responsive.
- Day famous thief-catcher Ali Kwara was buried
- Police, Ali Kwara comb kidnappers’ den in Bauchi, free hostages
Ali Kwara played unforgettable roles that made his antagonists submitted to him and sometimes, became his disciples. He could be described as a combatant without official uniform. He was a complete ‘anti-robbery squad’.
One of my teachers used to tell us about him, I can recall vividly he used to say it in Hausa that “Ali Kwara can turn into anything he wishes. He can be me, you, this bench, water, fire even animals but the purpose was to confuse criminals.”
He was a recipient of many awards and commendations because of his humanitarian works within and outside Bauchi state.
Ali Kwara’s death is indeed a great loss to his community and the nation
May Allah forgive his shortcomings, forgive him and grant him Jannatul firdaus. May Allah give his family, friends and the entire people the fortitude to bear the lost. May he give us another Ali Kwara who will continue to safeguard and protect us from criminals.
Usman Abdullahi Koli, Department of Mass Communication, Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic Bauchi.
