Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau, has died at the age of 71 after a prolonged illness. He passed away on Friday in Abuja, drawing the curtain on a decade of service as a revered traditional ruler.
The late monarch, who ascended the throne on March 16, 2015, following the death of his father, was the 16th Emir of Gusau. Before his royal duties, Dr. Bello built a distinguished career in public service, rising to the rank of Permanent Secretary in the civil services of the old Sokoto and Zamfara States.
His death was confirmed by Sulaiman Idis, spokesperson to Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal. In an official statement, Governor Lawal mourned the passing of the monarch, describing it as both a personal and communal 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 said.
Governor Lawal praised the late Emir for his unwavering commitment to the development and peace of Zamfara State. He noted that the Emir’s leadership over the past 10 years was marked by dedication, dignity, and spiritual fortitude.
“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. He led with commitment, dedication, and a strong sense of faith,” the statement added.
The governor extended his condolences to the Zamfara State Council of Chiefs, the Emir’s family, and the people of the Gusau Emirate.
Governor Lawal also reflected on the close personal relationship he shared with the Emir, whom he described as a father figure and trusted 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 prayed.
Dr. Ibrahim Bello’s passing leaves a significant void in the leadership of Zamfara’s traditional institution. Plans for his burial and official mourning are expected to be announced by the Gusau Emirate Council in the coming hours.
