Gayus Lalu Buried in Mangun as Family, Friends and Community Pay Tribute to a Life of Service and Sacrifice
Mr. Gayus David Lalu, eldest son of the David Lalu family and elder brother to Hon. Ishaya David Lalu, Member representing Mangu/Bokkos Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, has been laid to rest in his hometown of Mangun, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. His burial brought together family members, political associates, traditional rulers, religious leaders, friends, colleagues and well-wishers from within and outside Plateau State, who gathered to honour a man remembered for his humility, sacrifices and commitment to his family and community.
In a heartfelt tribute, Hon. Ishaya David Lalu described his late elder brother as more than a sibling, saying he assumed the role of a father to the younger members of the family following the demise of their parents. He noted that Gayus made tremendous sacrifices for the family, providing guidance, encouragement and support at critical moments in their lives. According to him, his elder brother’s love for the family was demonstrated not only in words but through years of selflessness, responsibility and commitment to the wellbeing and progress of his younger siblings. He added that the vacuum created by his passing would be deeply felt by the entire family.
Meanwhile, testimonies from family members, uncles, friends, his wife, the Dokan Toffa community, representatives of MDAs, the District Heads of Mangun, Chakfem and Jipal, as well as the COCIN Church, LCC Dokan Toffa, painted a picture of a man who lived a life worthy of emulation. Speakers described the deceased as a peaceful, responsible, compassionate and dependable individual who touched lives in different ways. They recalled his humility, generosity, commitment to his family and community, and his willingness to support others whenever the need arose. Across the various tributes, one message remained consistent: Late Gayus David Lalu lived a meaningful life, and his absence will leave a significant void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
As the gathering reflected on the meaning of life and eternity, the guest preacher, Rev. Bapshak Ezekiel, delivered a sermon from Ecclesiastes 7:1–5 on the topic, “Death Awaits Everyone.” He reminded the congregation that death is an inevitable reality for every human being and urged the living to reflect on the brevity of life and the importance of living purposefully. He encouraged the family and mourners to draw strength from God, while using the passing of the deceased as an opportunity to reassess their own lives, relationships and preparedness for eternity. He further emphasised the need to live lives that leave behind positive memories and legacies.
In the same spirit of comfort and solidarity, special prayers were offered for the bereaved family by the Chairman of RCC Abuja. The prayers sought God’s strength, comfort and grace for the family as they navigate the pain and emotional burden of losing a beloved husband, father, brother and community member.
Also expressing solidarity with the family, the Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, in a condolence message delivered by his representative, Hon. Donatus Mathew, Member representing Kaura Constituency of Kaduna State, extended his heartfelt condolences to the Lalu family. He prayed that God would grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss and grant the deceased eternal rest. He also acknowledged the pain that accompanies the loss of a loved one and urged the family to take solace in the memories, values and positive impact the deceased left behind.
In his vote of thanks, Hon. Ishaya David Lalu expressed profound appreciation to everyone who stood by the family before, during and after the burial. He acknowledged the prayers, visits, messages, financial and material support, as well as the presence of individuals and groups who made the difficult period more bearable for the family. He stated that every gesture of love and solidarity was deeply appreciated and would remain cherished by the family.
Hon. Ishaya Lalu particularly appreciated the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for identifying with the family and demonstrating support during their moment of grief. He also expressed appreciation to the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda; Senator Diket Plang; members of the National Assembly; traditional rulers; representatives of Ministries, Departments and Agencies; the Church; friends and associates, as well as the various communities that stood with the family.
He noted that moments of grief often reveal those who genuinely care and stand by others in difficult times, adding that the presence and support of friends, colleagues, leaders and communities during the period had given the family strength and comfort. He prayed that God would reward everyone who contributed in one way or another towards giving his late brother a befitting farewell.
The burial ceremony was attended by Senator Diket Plang, Senator representing Plateau Central Senatorial District; Hon. Donatus Mathew, Member representing Kaura Constituency of Kaduna State; the Chairman of Mangu Local Government Area, Arc. Hart Bankat; Hon. Barji; guests from Lagos, Abuja and Kaduna; spiritual fathers; traditional rulers and District Heads; representatives of the Dokan Toffa and Mangun communities; as well as friends, associates and dignitaries from different walks of life.
As the family bids farewell to Late Gayus David Lalu, his memory lives on through the lives he touched, the sacrifices he made and the values he upheld. While his physical presence will be deeply missed, the testimonies shared at his burial remain a testament to a life that mattered to his family, community and all who encountered him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
