Vice President Kashim Shettima has described the death of the Emir of Zuru in Kebbi State, Major General Muhammadu Sani Sami (Rtd.), as a monumental loss to Nigeria’s traditional institution and military heritage.
The Emir, who reigned as Gomo II of Zuru, died on Saturday night in a London hospital after a brief illness at the age of 81.
In a condolence message issued on Sunday by his Spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President said the late monarch embodied the rare blend of military discipline, traditional wisdom, and community service that distinguished Nigeria’s post-independence leadership generation.
“When the giant Iroko tree falls, the landscape itself is forever altered. Today, our traditional and military landscapes look markedly different without Major General Sami’s commanding presence that bridged two critical pillars of our national leadership structure,” Shettima stated.
He noted that the late Emir’s military career had a profound influence on his traditional leadership, bringing strategic thinking and administrative discipline that enriched the Zuru Emirate.
Read Also: Mutfwang launches Nigeria Learning Passport to boost digital learning in Plateau
“Major General Muhammadu Sani Sami was not just an Emir or a military officer; he was a symbol of how diverse forms of leadership can unite to serve a common purpose – the betterment of one’s people and nation,” the Vice President added.
Shettima conveyed condolences on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, himself, and the federal government to the family of the deceased, the Zuru Emirate Council, and the people of Kebbi State.
He prayed for Allah’s mercy on the late Emir’s soul and for strength to his family and community to bear the loss.
“I pray Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus. May Allah also grant his family, the Zuru Emirate Council, the government and people of Kebbi State, and indeed the entire nation the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” the Vice President prayed.