Emir of Zuru, Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sani Sami (Retired), Dies at 81 in London Hospital
Kebbi State, in northwestern Nigeria, is in a period of deep mourning following the passing of one of its most revered traditional rulers, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zuru, Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sani Sami (Rtd.). The distinguished royal figure and former military officer died on Saturday night at the age of 81, after a brief illness. His death was confirmed in an official statement issued by the Kebbi State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Garba Umar-Dutsinmari, on Sunday in Birnin Kebbi.
Emir of Zuru death 2025
According to the commissioner, the late monarch passed away in a hospital in London, United Kingdom, where he had been receiving medical care. The news of his death has been met with widespread grief and sorrow across the Zuru Emirate, Kebbi State, and beyond, with many describing the late Emir as a pillar of traditional leadership, peace, and community development.
A Life of Service and Royal Legacy
Born in 1943, Emir Muhammadu Sani Sami was a prominent figure who not only held traditional authority but also had a distinguished career in the Nigerian Army, where he rose to the rank of Major General before his retirement. His experience in national service greatly influenced his reign, which was marked by wisdom, discipline, and dedication to the development of his people.
During his tenure as Emir of Zuru, he played a critical role in promoting peaceful coexistence, fostering inter-ethnic unity, and advancing rural development projects in the emirate. His contributions earned him national recognition and the admiration of traditional councils across the country.
The late monarch is survived by four wives and seven children, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to cultural heritage.
Kebbi State Government Reacts
Kebbi monarch dies in London
In a heartfelt condolence message, the Kebbi State Government expressed its profound sorrow over the death of the Emir, stating that the traditional institution and the state at large have lost a highly respected elder statesman. The statement read:
“The government extends its heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the late Emir, the Zuru Emirate Council, the people of Zuru, and the entire people of Kebbi State. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.”
The government assured that plans are underway regarding burial arrangements, and further details will be made public in due course.
Content Analysis
Burial plans for Emir of Zuru
This development marks a significant moment in the history of Kebbi State’s traditional leadership. The Emir of Zuru was not just a traditional ruler but also a bridge between modern governance and cultural heritage. His death is a notable loss to Northern Nigeria’s traditional council, especially given his dual role as a former military officer and royal father.
His passing may also prompt discussions on succession planning within the Zuru Emirate, a process that traditionally involves consultation with the Zuru Emirate Council and the state government.
https://shorturl.fm/Cxq3H