Alhaji Usman Faruk (1932 – December 18, 2020) was a prominent Nigerian military officer, police chief, and statesman who played a defining role in governance during the formative years of Nigeria’s state creation. He was the first Military Governor of North-Western State, serving from 1967 to 1975 under the regime of General Yakubu Gowon. His tenure coincided with the Nigerian Civil War and the broader restructuring of the federation, making him one of the key figures in Nigeria’s post-independence history.
Early Life and Background
Born in 1932 in Gombe, Usman Faruk would later be honored with the traditional title of Jarman Gombe, a recognition of his standing in society. He joined the Nigerian Army during the early post-independence period, a time when the military was expanding in influence as the young nation grappled with political instability.
Faruk eventually transferred to the Nigeria Police Force, where he rose through the ranks to become a Commissioner of Police, one of the highest offices in law enforcement. His dual background in the army and the police reflected the fluidity of Nigeria’s security institutions during this era.
Appointment as Military Governor
In 1967, General Yakubu Gowon announced a sweeping restructuring of Nigeria’s political map, breaking up the four large regions into twelve new states. The old Northern Region was divided, and North-Western State was created—comprising what is today Sokoto State and parts of Niger State.
Faruk was appointed the first Military Governor of North-Western State, placing him at the forefront of building governance structures in a new administrative unit at a time of war and uncertainty.
Governance and Achievements
As governor (1967–1975), Faruk laid the institutional foundations of the new state government. His administration emphasized:
Institution-building: Setting up ministries, administrative units, and civil service structures for effective governance.
Education: Supporting the development of schools and technical institutions. He played a role in the establishment of Sokoto State Polytechnic (later renamed Umaru Ali Shinkafi Polytechnic).
Agriculture and Infrastructure: Initiating early agricultural development schemes to support the largely rural economy, while investing in roads and state infrastructure.
Security and Stability: Maintaining peace in a state bordering the conflict zones of the Civil War (1967–1970).
Faruk remained in office until July 1975, when General Gowon’s government was overthrown in a coup led by General Murtala Muhammed, which brought an end to his governorship.
Later Life and Public Engagement
After his retirement from service, Faruk continued to play a significant role as a public elder statesman. He was often consulted on political matters, security issues, and questions of Nigeria’s unity.
In interviews and public statements, he stressed the importance of stability, good governance, and cohesion in a diverse federation like Nigeria.
As Jarman Gombe, he also embodied the link between Nigeria’s modern political institutions and traditional authority, serving as a cultural custodian in his home state.
Death and Legacy
Alhaji Usman Faruk passed away on December 18, 2020, at the age of 88. His death marked the passing of one of the last surviving military governors from the Gowon era.
Faruk’s legacy rests on his pioneering role in laying the administrative foundations of North-Western State, his contributions to education and public service, and his continued engagement in national debates long after leaving office.
Sources
Vanguard News, “First Military Governor of North-Western State, Usman Faruk, dies at 88,” December 18, 2020.
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