Vice-President Kashim Shettima has described the death of the Emir of Gusau, Dr Ibrahim Bello, as a monumental national loss, calling him a pillar of traditional leadership whose legacy will endure.
The Emir died on Friday at the age of 71 after a prolonged illness. He had ruled the Gusau Emirate since March 2015 and was widely respected for his calm leadership and dedication to peace-building and development.
In a condolence statement issued Saturday in Abuja, Shettima said the late emir was more than a royal figure he was a symbol of unity, wisdom, and cultural continuity.
“We have not just lost an emir; we have lost a titan. Dr Ibrahim Bello was a living bridge between our rich cultural heritage and our aspirations for national progress,” Shettima said.
He noted that the late emir’s 10-year reign was marked by integrity, commitment to service, and meaningful contributions to the socio-cultural development of Zamfara and the northern region.
Shettima also paid tribute to Dr Bello’s long civil service career, during which he rose to the position of Permanent Secretary in the old Sokoto State and later in Zamfara before becoming emir.
“In African tradition, the passing of such a revered elder is the closing of a chapter in our collective history,” the vice-president added.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government, Shettima extended heartfelt condolences to the royal family, the Gusau Emirate, the Zamfara Council of Chiefs, and the people of Zamfara State.
“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus,” he prayed.
The late monarch, who also held the traditional title of Sarkin Katsinan Gusau, was known for championing education, peace, and community cohesion throughout his reign.
