As tributes continued to pour in on the sudden death of popular Nigerian actress Saratu Gidado (Daso), the Motion Picture Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MOPPAN) has expressed sadness and offered condolences.
Daso died peacefully in her sleep at home in Kano today after taking her early morning Iftar meal in preparation for the final day of the Ramadan fasting.
She was buried in Kano this afternoon according to Islamic rites.
In a press statement issued in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Al-Amin Ciroma, MOPPAN, which is the Hausa film industry’s umbrella body, said: “It is with heavy heart and profound sadness that the Kannywood mourns the passing of one of its brightest stars, Saratu Gidado, affectionately known to her fans as Daso.
“Born on January 17, 1968, in Gombe, Daso was a beacon of talent and resilience within the industry, leaving an indelible mark on Kannywood cinema.
“Daso’s journey in the world of film began in Kano, where she embarked on a remarkable career that spanned over two decades.
“Renowned for her portrayal of strong-willed characters, Daso captivated audiences with her dynamic performances, consistently defying conventions and captivating the hearts of viewers across the region.
“Her cinematic debut in the 2000 film ‘Linzami Da Wuta’, produced by Sarauniya Movies, marked the beginning of a prolific career that saw her starring in numerous hits, including ‘Nagari’, ‘Gidauniya,’ ‘Mashi,” and ‘Sansani.’
“Through her dedication and talent, Daso became a household name, earning widespread acclaim for her versatility and unmatched on-screen presence.
“The Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MOPPAN) extends its deepest condolences to the entire Kannywood community for the loss of this legendary actor.”
MOPPAN also acknowledged the actress’ “invaluable contributions to the industry” and honoured her legacy as a trailblazer in Kannywood cinema.
It said: “Habibu Muhammad Barde, MOPPAN’s National President, expresses profound shock and sadness at Daso’s untimely demise, emphasising the irreplaceable void left by her passing.
“He joins the entire Kannywood fraternity in mourning the loss of a beloved icon, offering prayers for her soul to find eternal peace in Jannatul Firdausi.
“As we bid farewell to Saratu Giɗaɗo, may her memory continue to inspire generations of filmmakers and actors, and may her legacy endure as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in Kannywood and beyond.”
In his own tribute to the deceased, a former national president of MOPPAN, Alhaji Sani Mu’azu, shared his fond memories of the actress in a press statement titled “The Curtain Drops on Daso”.
Mu’azu wrote: “It is with sadness and regret that I join others to announce the death of one of Kannywood’s renowned actors, Hajiya Saratu Gidado, popularly known as Daso by her fans around the world.
“Her death came as a shock because she was not sick at all. She went to bed and slept off soundly last night as confirmed by her first son, only for her to fail to show up today. She died in her sleep.
“Shocking really, but for a Muslim, we know that death is inevitable and it can come calling any time. Inna lillahi wa ınna ilaihir raji’un!”
Mu’azu, a leading actor who also chairs the Board of Trustees of MOPPAN, added: “Daso will be remembered as one of the most prolific and versatile actors in Nigeria who interpreted different role genres; comedy, tragedy, rigid our fluid. She was also fluent in her roles in both Hausa and English.
“Daso can be likened only to Patience Ozokwo – Mama Gee in Nollywood.
“Daso had been in the motion picture industry in Nigeria for at least 20 years and I had personally worked with her in several movies.
“She even stayed with my family in Jos while working on a movie I directed ‘Ɗan-Gari’.
“Her work ethics are remarkably professional. Her ability to grasp the complexity of a role was amazing. Interpretation of the role with her was magical.
“Daso captivated hundreds of thousands of audiences, often making a whole town to stand still or erupt in thunderous applause when she appears.
“Daso tried to make an impact beyond the world of make belief by actively engaging in humanitarian services, gifting the less privileged in the society from her modest earnings or as intermediary between donors and the needy beneficiaries.
“On behalf of my family and the Board of Trustees of MOPPAN, I wish to sincerely extend my condolences to her immediate family members, all practitioners based in Kano and the entire film industry in Nigeria for this huge loss.
“May Allah SWT grant us all the fortitude to bear this great loss.
“May Allah SWT grant her His rahma with access to the Garden of eternal bliss, Jannat Firdaus, ameen thumma ameen.”
