ABUJA — A stream of political, religious and legal leaders have trooped to the Maitama residence of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Damian Dodo to commiserate with him over the passing of his mother, Mrs. Veronica Rabi Dodo. She died on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 81. She was born on November 29, 1944.
Among those who paid respects are former military President Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, rtd; Vice President Kashim Shettima; former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; Governors Umaru Fintiri and Sheriff Oborevwori; FCT Minister Nyesom Wike; and THISDAY/ARISE Chairman Prince Nduka Obaigbena. Shettima prayed for God’s comfort, Atiku described the loss as “irreparable,” while Wike said he has faith she rests “in the bosom of the Lord Jesus Christ.” Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama recalled her support in Wukari, and Cardinal John Onaiyekan, currently attending peace events in New York and Nairobi, praised her perseverance and faith. Also present were former CJN Justice Mahmud Mohammed, former IGP Ibrahim Abubakar, ex-Speaker Yakubu Dogara, senators, SANs, retired senior military officers and other associates.
The Taraba State Government, in a statement signed by Commissioner for Information Zainab Jalingo for Governor Agbu Kefas, described Mrs. Dodo as a woman of dignity, resilience and compassion whose family has served Taraba and Nigeria well. “The passing of a mother is a profound loss,” the government said, praying that God grants the family fortitude and grants the deceased eternal rest. Condolences have continued to pour in from public officials, clergy, the judiciary and friends of the Dodo family.
