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By Akanji Alowolodu, Bauchi
Late Baba Peter Gonto. the first missionary and human rights activist among the Sayawa speaking group in Bauchi State deserve to be a hero, says Executive Secretary of TetFUND, Prof Sulaiman Bogoro.
Prof Bogoro made the declaration during a memorial service and a book launch in honour of the first Christian missionary in Sayawa land held at the Government Secondary School, Bogoro on Friday.
He stated that the late Baba Peter Gonto played a tremendous role in promoting Christianity in Bogoro and Tafawa Balewa LGAs during the colonial era. He was born in Mwari, Bogoro LGA of Bauchi State sometimes in 1882 and died on 15th April 2000.
Suleiman Bogoro noted that it is very important to look at the life and times of late Baba Peter Gonto after his departure so that the positivities of his life can be identified to serve as a role model for upcoming generations.
According to him, “Looking at his lifetime I realize that it is a milestone to celebrate him and dig out much about him as well as his activities as a non violence man who ever lived in Sayawa nation”.
All those who spoke at the programme, said that what Baba Peter Gonto stood for in life was not fully appreciated by those who came after him and are in position to do so.
Chairman of Bogoro LGC, Hon Iliya Habila commended the organizers of the event saying that the life and time of late Baba Peter Gonto is worthy of emulation by both political and traditional leaders in the area.
The Council Chairman assured that his administration will continue to project the good image of late Baba Peter Gonto as a worthy son of the area stressing that he was able to promote peaceful coexistence during his time.
According to the village head of Bogoro, Mr Nuhu Tafida, the contribution of late Baba Peter Gonto transcends from the Church to a patriotic movement stressing that his life time is worthy of emulation by others.
