The Emir of Gumel in Jigawa State, Alhaji Ahmed Muhammad Sani II, has died at the age of 83 after nearly 46 years on the throne.
The monarch died on Thursday in Cairo, Egypt, where he had been receiving medical treatment, palace sources said.
His death was also confirmed by the Secretary to the Jigawa State Government during a press briefing in Dutse on Thursday.
Born on December 12, 1942, Ahmed Sani II became the 16th Emir of Gumel and was regarded as one of Northern Nigeria’s longest-serving traditional rulers.
He ascended the throne on December 16, 1980, following the death of his father, and received his staff of office in May 1981.
During his long reign, the Emir was widely respected for his contributions to peace, education and the development of the Gumel Emirate and its people.
His death brings to an end a nearly five-decade reign that made him one of the most prominent traditional rulers in northern Nigeria.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the Jigawa State Government and the Gumel Emirate Council.
