Ahmadu Bello University Pays Tribute to Late Prof. Ibrahim Yusuf Zakari, AKA ZAKS131
Prof. Zakari, who passed away in April 2018, was renowned for his strict approach to teaching and his course, PHY 131, which became infamous among students.
Binye-lum 
On the 1st of October 2018, the academic community at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, remembered the legendary Prof. Ibrahim Yusuf Zakari, fondly known as ZAKS131, for his significant impact on students and the Department of Physics. Prof. Zakari, who passed away in April 2018, was renowned for his strict approach to teaching and his course, PHY 131, which became infamous among students.
Prof. Zakari earned the nickname "ZAKS131" due to his firm and principled nature, and he was labeled a "wicked lecturer" by students. He was nearly as well-known on campus as the then Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Garba. His influence extended beyond the Department of Physics, as he taught students in Education, Pharmacy, Medicine, Engineering, and other disciplines.
His Physics 131 course was notorious for being difficult, and many students found it challenging to pass. Prof. Zakari’s reputation was built on his often-quoted phrases such as: “I’m not here to teach you; I’m here to lecture. I’m not here to correct you; I’m here to confuse you!” and “A is for Allah; B is for me. C is for those who work extra hard. D, E, and F are for everyone else.”
Despite his tough reputation, Prof. Zakari was respected by many for his dedication to maintaining high academic standards. His classes were well-attended, and tutorials held for Physics 131 would often fill up as though they were lectures themselves. Passing his course with an "E" was considered an achievement.
Prof. Zakari passed away on the 18th of April, 2018, while 100-level students were sitting for his course. His death marked the end of an era, but his legacy continues to inspire students and staff at ABU. May his soul rest in peace, and may Allah forgive his shortcomings.
