Peter Obi Pays Tribute to Late Zurmi, Gumel Monarchs, Says Nigeria Has Lost Two Respected Traditional Leaders

Presidential candidate of the NDC, Peter Obi, has mourned the deaths of the Sarkin Zamfara of Zurmi, Alhaji Bello Sulaiman, and the Emir of Gumel, Ahmed Sani II, describing their passing as a painful loss to their emirates and the nation.

Obi conveyed his condolences in a statement shared on his official X handle on Saturday, where he sympathised with the governments, traditional institutions, and residents of Zamfara and Jigawa states over the demise of the two royal fathers.

The former Anambra State governor said the late monarchs were highly respected custodians of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage whose leadership strengthened peace, unity and social cohesion in their respective domains.

“I offer my heartfelt sympathies to the people of Zurmi Emirate in Zamfara State and the people of Gumel Emirate in Jigawa State regarding the demise of two esteemed traditional leaders: His Royal Highness, Alhaji Bello Sulaiman, Sarkin Zamfara, Zurmi, and His Royal Highness, Emir Ahmed Sani II, Emir of Gumel, who passed away in Egypt.”

According to Obi, the deaths of the traditional rulers leave a vacuum that will be difficult to fill because of their contributions to preserving the customs and identity of their people.

“Their deaths mark considerable losses to their respective emirates and to Nigeria. As custodians of our culture, history, and traditions, the Royal Fathers played vital roles in safeguarding the identity of their people and fostering peace, unity, and social harmony.”

He extended his sympathies to the bereaved families, the traditional councils and the people of both emirates, urging them to remain strong in the face of the tragedy.

“I sincerely sympathize with their families, the traditional institutions, and the people of Zurmi and Gumel Emirates during this challenging time.

Obi also prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed monarchs.

“May Almighty Allah forgive their shortcomings, grant them Aljannatul Firdaus, and provide their families and subjects with the strength and resilience to endure these irreplaceable losses.”