“Stick to Truth”: A Memo of My Interview with the Late Yakubu Tafida, by Kasim Isa Muhammad
For the past year, I interviewed the late Mallam Yakubu Tafida for Neptune Prime Weekend. It was one of the most notable interviews I have ever conducted in my career because it focused on his life, experiences, struggles, and philosophy. He spoke extensively about Nigeria and what it used to be, sharing stories and insights that were both honest and thought-provoking.
As a young person, I found our almost one-hour conversation very educating, entertaining, memorable, and fascinating. Every moment of the interview made me appreciate not just the man, but also the history he carried with him.
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Mallam Yakubu Tafida was a workaholic who singlehandedly made it in life after both of his parents died when he was a toddler. He told me how he worked for the Borno and Bauchi Provinces and how he also worked with the Nigerian Army during the civil war. He spoke with clarity and pride about every stage of his life, and it was impossible not to be inspired by his determination and resilience.
Listening to him made me realize how much discipline, patience, and hard work can shape a person’s life, and how staying true to your values can guide you through even the toughest times.
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He died at the age of 85, which is no small feat, and leaves behind a life full of service, principle, and determination. He was a man of strong convictions, cosmopolitan in outlook, broad-minded, and grounded in his values.
The most important lesson I took from our interview was to stick to the truth and to my moral convictions, no matter whose feelings or interests might be affected. His words about patience, persistence, and integrity are still planted deeply in my mind and continue to influence the way I approach life.
While scrolling through social media, I learned of his passing. The news hit me hard and brought back memories of every conversation we shared during that interview.
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I guess I still have the recording on my phone, and thinking about it now, it feels like a small treasure, a reminder of the lessons he shared and the wisdom he carried. May his soul rest in peace, and may God comfort his family. You will forever be missed, Mallam Yakubu Tafida.
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