The former Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Shehu Malami, is dead, aged 85.
Malami died in Cairo, Egypt, after a brief illness, Daily Trust learnt.
Malami, who marked his 80th birthday in 2017 with a presentation of a book entitled: “Shehu Malami: A Prince of the Caliphate. Selected speeches and commentaries,” was highly respected among the elite.
President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday described the death of Sokoto Prince, businessman and former Sarkin Sudan of Wurno, (a senior title in the Sultanate) was “sad and shocking.”
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The president in a statement by his, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, said, “This is such shocking and sad news. I am absolutely stunned to hear this. It is another reminder of how fragile life is.
“He was a business leader respected globally who believed in this country’s economic prowess. He was an icon of business and industry and a graceful traditionalist.
‘‘His passing is a big loss to the nation. Condolences to his family and friends, the Sultanate and the government and people of Sokoto State. May his soul rest in peace,” said the President.