Kaduna state is in mourning as the Emir of Zazzau, Shehu Idris, died on Sunday, September 20, at the age of 84.
The emir died at 44 Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna after a brief illness, a prince of Bamali royal family in Zaria confirmed.
Emir Idris was admitted on Saturday at the hospital after his protracted illness deteriorated.
The first-class traditional ruler of Zauzzau from the Katsinawa royal clan assumed the throne on 15th February 1975 at the age of 36.. He reigned for 45 years.
Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, confirmed the Emir’s death.
While describing Idris’ death as “very sad”, the governor tweeted, “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.”
He has been buried according to Islamic rites.
Former military president, Gen. I B Babangida, said he received the sad news with great sorrow.
“My heartfelt condolences to the Governor of Kaduna State, the entire Zazzau emirate and his beloved family, as well as the Federal government for the loss of this foremost traditional ruler.
“For 45 years, Alhaji Shehu Idris has been a pillar of our traditional institution, a bridge between people of various ethnicities and religions, and a powerful force for keeping Kaduna State so cosmopolitan.
“Indeed, his wisdom and integrity has been invaluable in advancing the growth and progress of our dear nation. As a beneficiary of his support and fatherly advice for many decades, the passing of this great man is a profound personal loss indeed,” he said.
5. As we mourn the loss of this iconic leader, one of the longest serving traditional rulers of our time, we pray that Almighty Allah grant him Aljannah Firdausi.
