El-Rufai Declares Public Holiday To Mourn Ex-Deputy Bantext’s Death

Monday, July 12 have been declared a work-free day in Kaduna State to mourn the death of Arch. Barnabas Bantex, a former deputy governor of the state.

Naija News had reported that Bantex who was a former deputy to the incumbent Governor Nasir El-Rufai, died on Sunday after suffering from an undisclosed ailment.

Commiserating with the family of the deceased and as a sign of respect to the late politician, the state government on Sunday announced there will be a public holiday across the state.

The declaration of the public holiday, Naija News understands was contained in a statement issued by Muyiwa Adekeye, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication.

The statement reads, “The Kaduna State Government has formally announced the death of former Deputy Governor His Excellency, Barnabas Yusuf Bala (Bantex).

“The state government has declared Monday, 12th July 2021 as a work-free day in honour of his memory and service to the state.

“Architect Barnabas Bala, who served as Deputy Governor of Kaduna State from May 2015 to May 2019, died today in Abuja.

“Malam Nasir El-Rufai has sent a personal message of condolence to the family, noting that it was a blessing to know Bantex and to work with him. The governor acknowledged his commitment to the progress of Kaduna State and prayed God to grant him peaceful repose and to comfort his family.”