The Emir of Gusau in Zamfara State, Ibrahim Bello, has passed on at the age of 71 after a protracted illness in Abuja.

The 16th Emir succeeded his father who died on March 16, 2015.

Bello, a civil servant who rose to the highest position of Permanent Secretary during his service in old Sokoto and Zamfara states, served for 10 years and a few months.

His demise was confirmed by Sulaiman Idis, the spokesperson for Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, who commiserated with the people of the state over the loss.

According to the statement, the governor described the Emir’s death as a personal loss, noting that he was a supportive royal father and a capable leader who dedicated himself to improving Zamfara State.

The governor prayed that God grant the the Emir Aljannah, saying he was his father and confidant.