President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the death of the Emir of Zurmi in Zamfara State, Alhaji Bello Sulaiman, describing the late traditional ruler as a respected leader who served his people with wisdom, dignity and courage during a difficult period.

The President conveyed his condolences on Wednesday, September 2, to the family of the late monarch, the Zurmi Emirate Council, the Zamfara State Government and people, as well as Nigeria’s traditional institution.

Sulaiman, who was also known as the Sarkin Zamfaran Zurmi, died on Monday, about five years after ascending the throne. His death has drawn reactions from political leaders and other stakeholders in Zamfara State.

In his condolence message, Tinubu described the late emir as a monarch who provided wise and courageous leadership to his people, particularly at a time when communities in the North-West have continued to face serious security challenges.

The President acknowledged the difficult circumstances under which the traditional ruler carried out his responsibilities, noting the importance of traditional institutions in maintaining stability, community leadership and social cohesion.

Tinubu expressed sympathy to the Zurmi Emirate Council and the people of the emirate, saying the loss would be deeply felt by those who benefited from the late monarch’s leadership.

He also prayed for the repose of Sulaiman’s soul and asked Allah to grant the deceased eternal rest while giving his family, subjects and other mourners the strength to cope with the loss.

Emir’s death comes after five years on the throne

The death of Bello Sulaiman was announced after he reportedly passed away on Monday afternoon at the Federal Medical Centre in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital.

He had spent approximately five years on the throne after succeeding his uncle, Abubakar Atiku, who was removed from the emirship by the state government amid allegations linked to banditry and security matters.

Sulaiman’s reign coincided with a period of significant security challenges across Zamfara and other parts of the North-West, where traditional rulers have often played roles in community engagement and efforts aimed at promoting peace.

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal also expressed grief over the monarch’s death, describing it as a painful loss to the state and the traditional institution.

As condolences continue to reach the emirate, the late monarch is being remembered for his leadership of Zurmi during a particularly challenging period.

Tinubu’s message adds the Presidency to the growing list of individuals and institutions mourning the traditional ruler and recognising his contribution to his community and the wider traditional institution in Nigeria.