The Emir of Zuru in Kebbi State, Major General Muhammad Sami II (rtd), has died at the age of 81 while receiving treatment at a hospital in London.
His death was confirmed on Sunday by Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris, during an interview with Channels Television.
Before ascending the throne, the late monarch had a distinguished career in the military and served as the governor of Bauchi State between 1984 and 1985 under the administration of then Head of State, Muhammadu Buhari.
Reacting to the news, Governor Idris expressed profound sorrow, describing the loss as devastating. He referred to the Emir as “a father figure and elder statesman, full of wisdom, who always had the interest of his people at heart.”
The late Emir is survived by four wives and seven children.
In a condolence message, the Kebbi State Government eulogized him as a symbol of unity and a pillar of progress in both Zuru Emirate and the wider state.
“The government extends its heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the late Emir, the Zuru Emirate Council, the people of Zuru, and the entire people of Kebbi State. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus,” the statement read.
