Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau in Zamfara State, has died at the age of 71 after battling a long-term illness. He passed away on Friday in Abuja.

The news of his death was confirmed by Sulaiman Idris, spokesperson to Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal.

In an official statement, Governor Lawal mourned the loss, describing the late Emir as a dependable monarch who worked tirelessly for the peace and progress of Zamfara.

“I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of our father, His Royal Highness, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau… I have lost a confidant and a father whose wisdom guides me and other state leaders. May the Almighty Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah,” the governor said.

Appointed as the 16th Emir of Gusau in March 2015 following the death of his father, Bello spent over a decade on the throne, during which he played a significant role in the socio-cultural affairs of the state.