Popular Kannywood actor, Yakubu Mato, popularly known as Malam Nata’ala, is dead.
The veteran actor passed away on Sunday night after a prolonged illness.
Mato gained prominence for his role as an almajiri school teacher in Arewa24’s Hausa drama series Dadin Kowa, where his performance endeared him to audiences across Northern Nigeria.
One of the writers of the series, Fauziya D. Sulaiman, confirmed his death in a Facebook post on Sunday, writing,”Innalillahi wa’inna ilaihi rajiun, just now the news of the death of Malam Nata’al. May Allah forgive him, may Allah make his sickness an apology.”
The late actor featured in several Kannywood productions before his rise on Dadin Kowa.
Known for his comedic range, he often portrayed a loud but humorous Qur’anic teacher navigating domestic crises between two wives.
His illness had drawn public concern in recent months, leading to fundraising appeals and reported interventions from both Yobe State Government and authorities in Niger Republic.
In a condolence message issued by the Yobe State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Ya Jalo Badama, she described his death as a loss to both Kannywood and the political community.
“Mahaluki Na Ta’ala was a respected figure known for his immense contributions to the entertainment industry and his active participation during the campaign of His Excellency, Governor (Dr) Mai Mala Buni CON.
“His passing is a great loss not only to the film industry but also to the APC family and the entire people of Yobe State,” the statement partly read.
She extended condolences to the government and people of Yobe State, the Potiskum Emirate Council and PotiskumLocal Government Area.
Malam Nata’ala was originally from Yobe State and was a notable name in the Chamama comedy era alongside late Rabilu Musa (Dan Ibro) before the era of Arewa24.
Details of his burial were yet to be announced as of press time.
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