The Emir of Gusau in Zamfara State, Dr. Ibrahim Bello has died at the age of 71 after a long battle with illness.
He died on Friday in Abuja.
Dr. Bello, who became the 16th Emir of Gusau on March 16, 2015, following his father’s death, was widely respected for his service to the state and the nation.
Before ascending the throne, he had a distinguished career in public service, rising to the role of Permanent Secretary in both the former Sokoto State and later Zamfara State.
While reacting to the monarch’s death, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal conveyed his grief through a statement by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris.
“I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of our father, His Royal Highness, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau,” the statement read.
“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.”
The governor described the monarch’s death as a great loss, highlighting the significant impact of his ten-year reign.
“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 said.
“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,” it added.