The upbringing of today's youth has deteriorated as a result of parental negligence and the failure to reprimand parents and neighbors...
The upbringing of today's youth has deteriorated as a result of parental negligence and the failure to reprimand parents and neighbors, according to Mama Kaduna.
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
Mama Yuu Gachegi, also known as Hannatu Bahago, is an elderly woman approximately 95 years old. She is the eldest individual in Rafi local government, widely recognized as Maman Kaduna. She is the mother of the late former Magajin Rafi of Kagara, Dr. Luka Ashigihuwo Bahago, a former pilot, Alesha Agio Bahago, Yusuf Bahago, a civil servant in Niger State, and the late BBC reporter, Haruna Bahago. Additionally, she has many grandchildren. She was born in Geijo village of Uregi area in Rafi local government of Niger State. In her interview, she expressed that the discipline they received in the past, which they are benefitting from today, has been forsaken by parents, consequently placing today's youth in a dire situation.
To begin, I would like to gather information about Mama's full name and a brief history.
MAMA: Certainly, my name is Yuu, the family name bestowed upon me. I hail from royal lineage, and my father passed away when I was very young. Following my father's demise, Tuguma, my mother Butudama, and I continued to reside together, adhering to the traditional Magiro religion.
We encountered a situation where a Caucasian man named Tula, practicing the Christian faith, appeared in our vicinity. He sought children to enroll in school but found none available. Consequently, he established a farm and required assistance in its maintenance. I was enlisted to work on the farm. My mother opposed this vehemently, fearing that I would be converted to Christianity due to my father's absence. Despite her objections, I was employed under the condition that any animal trespassing on the farm would incur a fine of one shilling.
At what age were you when this occurred?
MAMA: I would have been no older than eight at the time. I encountered him along with a white lady named Safiya and some of our local men who were also in his employ. Safiya was responsible for caring for orphans.
Subsequently, we relocated from Uregi area to Gwagwada in Kaduna state, where I met my husband, Gachegi, also known as Bahago. Despite my tender age, he desired marriage. While in our hometown, I bore my first son, the late Dr. Luka Bahago. Following our return to Gwagwada, I continued to educate children and manage household affairs. Our focus was on nurturing children. Prior to embracing Christianity, I worshipped the Magiro, also known as Nono. This adherence to traditional beliefs often deterred children from pursuing modern education due to the fear of abandoning our native religion for Christianity.
Upon marrying Gachegi (Bahago), I embraced Christianity, and we had six children together, although three have since passed away. I now have three surviving children, and this year, I celebrate my ninety-fifth (95th) birthday.
Mama, despite your advanced age, you appear to be in good health. Have you battled any longstanding illnesses?
MAMA: I do not suffer from illness because I adhere to traditional dietary habits, consume minimal salt, and abstain from modern foods.
So, despite changing times, you remain steadfast in your ways?
MAMA: I am devout in my Christian faith, which permits me to partake in traditions not contradictory to our religious principles. Consequently, despite my children's achievements and societal advancements, I ensure they remain grounded in our cultural practices.
Mama, could you compare life in the community today with that of the past?
MAMA: Present-day society has strayed from its religious roots, with leaders lacking in integrity. If we collectively uphold truthfulness, eradicate envy and jealousy, and fulfill our responsibilities, we can rectify this situation. For instance, observe the discipline among today's youth and the parenting practices. Parents often prioritize their children's desires, allowing them undue influence over familial decisions. Consequently, parental responsibilities, including discipline, clothing, and nourishment, have been neglected, exacerbating the deterioration of societal values.
Do you have any advice for the community?
MAMA: I implore everyone to prioritize honesty, eschew worldly temptations, and foster love and support for the vulnerable, particularly orphans bereft of guardians. By embracing our cultural heritage and mutual respect, we can cultivate harmonious relationships among family members, spouses, and the wider community, thereby ensuring a brighter future.
Mama, we extend our gratitude. May God bless you with continued good health and longevity.
MAMA: Amen. Thank you, and may God grant you wisdom and enlightenment in your endeavors.
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