The Emir of Gusau in Zamfara State, His Royal Highness Dr. Ibrahim Bello, is dead. He was aged of 71.

He died on Friday in Abuja in a prolonged illness.

Dr. Bello ascended the throne as the 16th Emir of Gusau on March 16, 2015, following the death of his father.

Prior to becoming Emir, he had a distinguished career in public service, rising to the position of Permanent Secretary in the old Sokoto and later Zamfara State.

He served on the throne for over 10 years.

Confirming the news, Sulaiman Idris, spokesperson to Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, expressed deep sorrow over the Emir’s passing, describing it as a personal and statewide loss.

“I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of our father, His Royal Highness, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau,” the governor was quoted to have said in a statement.

He extended condolences to the Zamfara State Council of Chiefs, the Emir’s family, the Gusau Emirate, and the entire people of Zamfara.

“The late royal father was a pillar of wisdom and leadership.

For over a decade, he led the people of Gusau with dignity, faith, and an unwavering commitment to progress,” the statement added.

Governor Lawal also described the Emir as a trusted confidant and father figure, saying, “I have lost a father whose counsel and support were invaluable.

May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah.”