Nigeria is mourning the death of the Emir of Zuru Emirate in Kebbi State, Major General Muhammadu Sani Sami (Rtd.), who died at the age of 81 after a brief illness in a London hospital. His death has drawn an outpouring of condolences from across the political, military, and cultural spectrum.
President Bola Tinubu, in a condolence message, described the late Emir as “a rare leader who embodied integrity, patriotism, and devotion to public service.” The Northern Governors’ Forum also paid tribute, noting his stabilizing role in times of insecurity.
A career military officer, the Emir served as Military Governor of old Bauchi State in the 1980s before ascending to the throne in 1995. Throughout his reign, he promoted cultural festivals such as the Uhola Festival, which drew national recognition, and championed inter-communal peace in a region often troubled by ethnic and religious conflicts.
His funeral, to be held in Zuru under Islamic rites, is expected to draw prominent Nigerians, including senior government officials, traditional rulers, and military officers.
