Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has approved the appointment of Dr Lawan Ahmed Muhammad Sani as the 17th Emir of Gumel Emirate.
The Punch reported that the appointment was announced on Sunday by the Secretary to the State Government, Bala Ibrahim, during a press briefing at the Nigeria Union of Journalists Secretariat in Dutse, the state capital.
The development came three days after the death of Sani’s father, who previously occupied the traditional stool.
According to Ibrahim, the governor reached the decision after consultations with the Gumel Emirate Council and the kingmakers, in line with the provisions of the Jigawa State Emirate Council Law.
“Following due consultations with the Gumel Emirate Council, kingmakers, and in accordance with the Jigawa State Emirate Council Law, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, has approved the appointment of Dr Lawan Ahmed Muhammad Sani as the new Emir of Gumel,” the SSG said.
He explained that the appointment took immediate effect to prevent a leadership vacuum and maintain stability within the emirate.
“This appointment takes effect immediately in order to fill the vacuum created by the passing of His Royal Highness and to sustain peace, unity and development in Gumel Emirate,” he stated.
The SSG described the newly appointed emir as an experienced traditional leader who is familiar with the affairs and customs of the emirate.
“Dr Lawan Ahmed Muhammad Sani previously served diligently as the Ciroman Gumel during the reign of his late father. His experience, education and deep understanding of the traditions of Gumel make him eminently qualified for this exalted throne,” Ibrahim said.
He added that Lawan’s previous role would be an advantage as he assumes the new position and continues the work of his late father.
“Having served as Ciroman Gumel, Dr Lawan is not new to the people. He understands the challenges and aspirations of Gumel and Jigawa State at large. Government is confident he will provide purposeful and exemplary leadership,” the SSG said.
Ibrahim also conveyed Governor Namadi’s appeal to residents and indigenes of Gumel Emirate to support the new traditional ruler.
“His Excellency calls on all sons and daughters of Gumel Emirate to give their maximum support and cooperation to the new Emir for the overall peace and progress of the emirate,” he quoted the governor as saying.
The SSG prayed for the repose of the late emir and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting traditional institutions across Jigawa.
“On behalf of the government and good people of Jigawa State, we pray Almighty Allah to grant the late Emir Aljannatul Firdaus. Government remains committed to preserving our traditional institutions as custodians of culture and unity,” he said.
Ibrahim further disclosed that Governor Namadi would formally present the staff of office to the new emir at a later date.
“In due course, His Excellency will present the staff of office to the 17th Emir of Gumel in a ceremony befitting his status. We urge all stakeholders to cooperate with government for a hitch-free event,” the SSG added.
