Shettima pays tribute to late Emir of Zuru, says he devoted his life to Nigeria

Vice-President Kashim Shettima led a heartfelt tribute to the late Emir of Zuru, Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sami (rtd), during the revered traditional ruler’s burial in Zuru, Kebbi State, on Saturday.

The emir, who passed away on August 16 in a London hospital after a prolonged illness, was laid to rest in a garden within his private residence, as per his wishes, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Representing President Bola Tinubu, Shettima conveyed the nation’s condolences to the Kebbi State government, the late emir’s family, and the Zuru community.

He praised the emir’s enduring contributions, saying, “The late Emir of Zuru devoted his life to serving Nigeria and humanity. His legacy of peace and leadership will forever inspire us.”

Shettima highlighted the vital role of traditional institutions in fostering unity, adding, “We honor our royal fathers for their unwavering commitment to peace across our nation.”

Expressing the president’s solidarity, Shettima told mourners, “President Tinubu stands with the people of Zuru in this moment of profound loss. We pray for Almighty God to grant the late emir Aljannatul Firdaus and his family the strength to endure this irreplaceable void.”

He also called for continued unity across Nigeria, emphasizing the emir’s role as a unifying figure.

The late emir’s eldest son, Sadiq Sani-Sami, spoke on behalf of the family, expressing gratitude for the president’s support. “Our father was a beacon of kindness and generosity,” Sadiq said.

“He instilled in us the values of humility and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on our community and the nation.”

The burial saw Nigerian Army officers paying their final respects to the former military general, in line with military tradition. Dignitaries in attendance included Kebbi State Governor Nasiru Idris, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, the 14th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, former Niger State Governor Sani Bello, Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction Dr. Yusuf Sununu, former Interior Minister Abdulrahman Danbazau, and APC National Organizing Secretary Alhaji Suleiman Argungu, alongside other traditional leaders.

The late emir’s life of service, both as a military officer and a traditional ruler, was celebrated as a testament to his enduring impact on Zuru and Nigeria.