The Emir of Gusau, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Bello, has died at the age of 71 after a prolonged illness.
The traditional ruler passed away around 4am on Thursday, according to palace sources. His death comes after months of battling an undisclosed health condition that kept him away from several public functions in recent times.
The late monarch, who ascended the throne in 2015, was the 16th Emir of Gusau and was appointed by former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari. Until his final days, he remained a key figure in the state’s traditional council and was known for his calm leadership style.
Burial arrangements have been concluded, and he is expected to be laid to rest later today in Gusau, the state capital, in line with Islamic rites.
Before becoming Emir, Dr Bello served as Secretary to the State Government and was also a Permanent Secretary in various ministries. He earned his doctorate from Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.