Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed grief over the passing of the Emir of Gusau, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, describing his death as a monumental loss to Nigeria’s traditional institution and a collective tragedy that extends far beyond Zamfara State.
The revered traditional ruler, who died Friday morning in Abuja at the age of 71, after a protracted illness, served as the Emir of Gusau for a decade after his appointment in March 2015.
In a condolence message on Saturday, Vice President Shettima, in a statement by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, said the nation has lost one of its most distinguished traditional leaders whose contributions to peace-building and community development will forever be remembered.
“We have not just lost an emir; we have lost a pillar of traditional leadership whose wisdom and dedication transcended the boundaries of his emirate.
“Dr. Ibrahim Bello was among the great titans of our time, a living bridge that connected us to our rich cultural heritage while championing progress and unity,” VP Shettima stated.
He noted that the late Emir’s decade-long reign was marked by exemplary leadership, unwavering commitment to his people, and significant contributions to the socio-cultural development of Zamfara State and the broader Northern region.
“His Royal Highness dedicated his life to serving his people with integrity, wisdom, and an unshakeable sense of duty. His passing represents an irreparable loss, not only to the Gusau Emirate and Zamfara State, but to Nigeria as a whole,” Shettima added.
He further praised the late monarch’s distinguished career as a civil servant, where he rose to the highest position of Permanent Secretary in the old Sokoto and Zamfara states before ascending to the throne.
“In African tradition, when such an elderly person transitions, a vital chapter of our history departs with them. The late Emir was indeed a repository of wisdom whose counsel guided leaders across the region,” the Vice President said.
Extending heartfelt condolences on behalf of President Bola Tinubu and the federal government, VP Shettima offered prayers for the repose of the Emir’s soul and strength for his family and subjects.
“I express our deepest condolences to the immediate and extended families of the late Emir, the Zamfara State Council of Chiefs, the Gusau Emirate, and the entire people of Zamfara State.
“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus, and may He grant all those he left behind the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” VP Shettima added.
The late Emir, who also bore the traditional title of Sarkin Katsinan Gusau, was widely respected for his calm leadership style and consistent engagement in community development efforts.
His reign was particularly noted for its focus on peace-building, education, and social harmony in the region.
President Tinubu had earlier described the Emir’s death as “a collective loss that goes beyond Zamfara State,” noting that Dr. Bello would be remembered for “his sense of duty, commitment to his people, and exemplary leadership.”
