The wedding of Halima, daughter of former military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, was a gathering of who-is-who in Nigeria yesterday, as Minna, the Niger State capital, stood still for the marriage.
Government and commercial activities were virtually brought to a halt. As early as 7:00 am, the major roads leading in and out of Minna metropolis, especially those leading to the Hilltop mansion of the Babangidas, were taken over by heavily armed security personnel stationed at every strategic junction and spots.
Many shops and other business premises were shut, as most traders stayed at home due to the heavy traffic congestion and unusual security in the town.
Government offices were deserted, as majority of civil servants could not return from mosques where they had gone to observe the Juma’at.
The Imam of Wushishi Central Mosque, Babangida’s hometown, Sheik Habibu Wushishi, joined the couple after the payment of the N500, 000 cash and 19 cows bride price by the groom’s family, led by Gombe State Governor Ibrahim Dangwambo.
