Process has commenced for the replacement of Emir of Zazzau following last Sunday’s death of Shehu Idris. 

To pick the 19th Emir of Zazzau, kingmakers have gone into seclusion, Peoples Gazette understands.

In the race are four princes from the four ruling houses of Katsinawa, Barebari, Mallawa and Sullubawa.

The princes are; Ahmed Bamali of the Mallawa Ruling House, Yariman Zazzau, Munir Jaafar of  Barebari, Iyan Zazzau, Muhammad Aminu of Katsinawa and the eldest son of the last emir, Turaki Zazzau, Alhaji Aminu Shehu Idris.

The recommendation of the kingmakers would be taken into consideration, but the final decision will be made by Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

“The kingmakers recommend but the ultimate responsibility to choose rests on my humble self. I must be knowledgeable about the process as the aspirants and kingmakers,” Mr. El-Rufai said in a statement Friday.

To understand all relevant issues surrounding the decision, Mr. El-Rufai said he would be guided by ‘Government in Zazzau, A Sociological Exploration of the Old Emirate. (1960)”  written by a scholar, M. G. Smith., The governor said this is to guide him in taking a decision. 

After 45 years on the throne, Mr. Idris died on September 20 at 84.