One of the oldest and highest ranking traditional rulers in Nigeria, the Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Shehu Idris, has died, aged 84.
He is to be buried at 5pm in Zaria, Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai has announced.
The late Emir, who celebrated 45 years on the throne in February this year, reportedly died at the 44 Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna at about 12 noon on Sunday, according to impeccable sources.
He was the 18th Emir of Zazzau and the Chairman of the Zazzau Emigrate Council.
Kaduna state governor Nasir El-Rufai confirmed the passing of the emir in a tweet on Sunday.
A video has emerged showing the governor leaving the hospital after a visit in the wake of the emir’s passing.
Correspondent on the scene says the governor stopped at the entrance to console a few traditional rulers who were seen crying, before entering his vehicle and departing.
Janazah prayers are scheduled for the departed emir at 5pm in Zaria, El-Rufai announced in a tweet.
VERY SAD: It is with great sadness that I confirm the passing of the father of our state, His Highness Emir of Zazzau, Alh (Dr.) Shehu Idris CFR. He died at the 44 Military Hospital Kaduna today after a brief illness. Janazah prayer in Zaria is scheduled for 5pm in Sha Allah. pic.twitter.com/hofOkMyl9N
— Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai (@elrufai) September 20, 2020
In Zaria, residents and well wishers are trooping to the palace of the Emir Zazzau in condolence.
Photo by ALIYU Baba Karfi
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