By Philomina Brando
The Emir of Gusau in Zamfara State, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, has passed away at the age of 71 after a protracted illness in Abuja.
Bello, a seasoned civil servant, served as Permanent Secretary in old Sokoto and Zamfara states for 10 years and a few months.
The spokesperson for Zamfara State Governor, Sulaiman Idis, confirmed the Emir’s demise, describing it as a personal loss for the governor.
“I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of our father, His Royal Highness, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau,” said Governor Dauda Lawal in a statement.
The governor expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Zamfara State Council of Chiefs, immediate and extended families of the late Emir, Gusau emirate, and 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 statement read.
The late royal father dedicated 10 years of serving the people after becoming the 15th Emir of Gusau on March 16, 2015. He led with commitment, dedication, and a strong sense of faith.
Governor Lawal prayed that God grant 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.