Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau in Zamfara State, has passed away at the age of 71 after battling a prolonged illness. He died on Friday in Abuja.
Dr. Bello, the 16th Emir of Gusau, ascended the throne following the death of his father on March 16, 2015. Before becoming a traditional ruler, he had a distinguished career in the civil service, rising to the rank of Permanent Secretary in both the former Sokoto State and later Zamfara State. His reign lasted just over a decade.
Confirming the monarch’s death, the spokesperson for Governor Dauda Lawal, Sulaiman Idis, extended condolences on behalf of the state government to the people of Zamfara.
Governor Lawal, in an official statement, described the Emir’s passing as a deeply personal loss, referring to him as a dedicated and supportive royal father who played a key role in the state’s development.
“With profound sorrow, I received the news of the passing of our father and leader, His Royal Highness Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau,” the governor said.
He extended his sympathy to the Zamfara State Council of Chiefs, the Emir’s immediate and extended family, the Gusau Emirate, and all citizens of Zamfara State.
“The death of His Highness is a significant loss not only to Zamfara but to the entire northern region and the nation. As Emir, he served with devotion, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility for over ten years,” the statement continued.
Governor Lawal also expressed personal grief, saying he had lost a trusted adviser.
“He was more than a traditional ruler to me—he was a father and confidant. His guidance was invaluable to my leadership. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest in Aljannah,” he prayed.
