Kebbi State, Northwest Nigeria, has plunged into mourning following the passing of the Emir of Zuru, Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sani Sami (retd), at the age of 81.
According to The PUNCH, the royal father reportedly died on Saturday night in a London hospital after a brief illness.
Confirming the development, Kebbi State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Garba Umar-Dutsinmari, described the late monarch as “a pillar of peace and progress whose reign brought development to the Zuru Emirate.”
He added, “We pray Allah forgives his shortcomings and grants him Aljannatul Firdaus. Our heartfelt condolences go to his immediate family, the Zuru Emirate Council, and the good people of Kebbi State.”
The late Emir, a retired Major General, is survived by four wives and seven children.
Meanwhile, the Kebbi State Government in a condolence message said the monarch’s departure has created a vacuum that will be difficult to fill. “His wisdom, humility, and unwavering commitment to unity will be greatly missed,’’ the statement read.
Burial arrangements, according to officials, will be announced in due course.