Emir of Gusau dies at 71

The Emir of Gusau in Zamfara State, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, on Friday passed on at the age of 71 after a protracted illness in Abuja.

The 16th Emir succeeded his father who died on March 16, 2015.

Bello, a civil servant who rose to the highest position of Permanent Secretary during his service in old Sokoto and Zamfara states, served for 10 years and a few months.

Confirming his demise, Sulaiman Idis, the spokesperson for Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, commiserated with the people of the state over the loss.

In the statement, the governor described the Emir’s death as a personal loss, noting that he was a supportive royal father and a capable leader who dedicated himself to making Zamfara State better.

“I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of our father, His Royal Highness, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau.

“I expressed my heartfelt condolences to the Zamfara State Council of Chiefs, immediate and extended families of the late Emir, Gusau emirate, as well as the entire people of Zamfara State.

“His Highness’s passing is a huge loss for the people of Zamfara State, as well as for the North and Nigeria as a whole. The late royal father dedicated 10 years of serving the people after becoming the 15th Emir of Gusau on 16 March 2015. He led with commitment, dedication, and a strong sense of faith,” the statement read.

The governor prayed that God grant the the Emir Aljannah, saying he was his father and confidant.

“I have lost a confidant and a father whose wisdom guides me and other state leaders. May the Almighty Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah,” he said.