The Executive Governor of Zamfara State, Governor Dauda Lawal P.hd has expressed profound grief over the death of the Sarkin Zamfaran Zurmi, His Royal Highness Alhaji Bello Sulaiman, who passed away on Monday at the Federal Medical Centre in Gusau. The revered traditional ruler’s transition marks the end of an era for the Zurmi Emirate, where he reigned with dignity and dedication for many years, and his death has sent shockwaves across the state, with many describing it as a monumental loss to the traditional institution and the people of Zamfara.
Governor Lawal described the late monarch’s passing as a “profound loss” that will be felt across the entire state, lauding Alhaji Bello Sulaiman’s unwavering commitment to his people and noting that his reign was characterized by a deep sense of service, wisdom and dedication to the peace and progress of Zamfara State. “His Royal Highness was a pillar of the traditional institution whose counsel and leadership were invaluable to the development of our dear state,” the Governor said, adding that his contributions to peace-building and community development will forever be remembered. The Governor acknowledged the late ruler’s role in fostering unity within the Zurmi Emirate and his efforts to promote harmonious coexistence among the diverse communities in the area.
During his tenure, the Sarkin Zamfaran Zurmi was known for his commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting traditional values, working closely with successive governments to ensure that the interests of his people were represented at all levels.
Community leaders and residents of Zurmi Emirate have continued to pour out tributes, recalling the monarch’s accessibility, fairness and dedication to resolving conflicts within his domain. Governor Lawal extended his heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s immediate family, the Zurmi Emirate Council and the entire people of Zurmi Emirate, urging them to find comfort in the legacy of service and leadership left behind by the late traditional ruler.
In his message of solace, the Governor offered prayers for the repose of the monarch’s soul, saying: “May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, reward his good deeds abundantly, grant him Aljannah Firdaus, and give his loved ones the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.” He also called on the people of the emirate and the state at large to remain peaceful during this period of mourning and to honour the memory of the late Sarkin Zamfaran Zurmi through continued unity and progress.
Details regarding the funeral and burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the Zurmi Emirate Council in due course, in accordance with Islamic rites and tradition. The late Alhaji Bello Sulaiman’s passing leaves a significant void in the traditional institution of Zamfara State, and his legacy of service, peace and cultural preservation will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.