The Emir of Zuru, His Royal Highness Mohammed Sani Sami, has passed away at the age of 81.
The respected monarch died on Saturday, August 16, in a London hospital after a brief illness. His death was confirmed in a statement released Sunday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Government, Ahmed Idris.
Quoting the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Garba Umar-Dutsinmari, the state government said burial arrangements would be announced later.
The Kebbi State Government extends its heartfelt condolences to the Emir’s immediate family, the Zuru Emirate Council, the people of Zuru, and the entire state,” the statement read. “We pray for Allah’s forgiveness of his shortcomings and the granting of Aljannatul Firdaus.”
Born in 1943, Emir Sami lived a life of service to Nigeria both in the military and on the throne. He joined the Nigerian Army on December 10, 1962, and was commissioned as an officer the following year.
His career peaked when he was appointed Military Governor of Bauchi State, a role he held from January 1984 to August 1985 during the regime of then-Head of State, Muhammadu Buhari.
In 1995, he ascended the throne of Zuru, where he reigned for three decades until his death.
The late emir is remembered as a traditional ruler who combined military discipline with royal leadership, leaving a legacy of service, loyalty, and resilience.
