The Emir of Gusau, His Royal Highness Dr. Ibrahim Bello, has passed away at the age of 71 following a prolonged illness. He died on Friday in Abuja, according to sources close to the family.
The late monarch, who ascended the throne in March 2015 following the death of his father, served as the 16th Emir of Gusau. Before his appointment to the traditional stool, Dr. Bello enjoyed a distinguished career in the civil service, where he rose to the rank of Permanent Secretary in both the old Sokoto and present-day Zamfara states.
His tenure as Emir spanned just over a decade, during which he was widely regarded as a steady and guiding presence in the region.
Reacting to the news, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State expressed deep sorrow over the Emir’s passing. In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Idis, the governor described the monarch’s death as not just a loss to the people of Gusau but to the entire state and northern Nigeria.
“I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of our father, His Royal Highness, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau,” Governor Lawal said. “His wise counsel, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of the people made him a pillar of strength in our state.”
The governor added that Dr. Bello was not only a father figure to him but also a trusted confidant whose support was invaluable.
“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest in Aljannah,” the statement concluded.
Condolences have continued to pour in from across the country, as traditional leaders, public officials, and citizens mourn the loss of a respected leader known for his humility, service, and sense of duty.
