The Emir of Zuru in Kebbi, Muhammadu Sani Sami, has died.

He passed away on Saturday night, according to a statement by Ahmed Idris, chief press secretary to the Kebbi governor, on Sunday.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Garba Umar-Dutsinmari, stated that the emir passed away at the age of 81 in a London hospital after a prolonged illness.

According to him, the emir left behind four wives and seven children.

“The Kebbi government is using this medium to extend its heartfelt condolences to his immediate family members, Zuru Emirate Council, Zuru people, and the entire people of Kebbi.

“May the Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus,” the commissioner said.

Mr Umar-Dutsinmari revealed that the burial arrangements would be communicated later.
The late emir was an army officer who rose through the ranks to become a major general.

He joined the Nigerian Army on December 10, 1962, and attended several courses, both within and outside Nigeria, including the Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot, England. He was commissioned on July 25, 1963.

From 1984 to 1985, he served as the Military Administrator of Bauchi State. From 1985 to 1987, he was an Officer at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry.

He also served as Commanding Officer of the 82nd Division and was appointed General Officer Commanding 1 Mechanised Division in 1988.

Mr Sani Sami was appointed Emir of Zuru in 1995, a position he held until his demise.

(NAN)