The Emir of Kontagora in Niger State, Alhaji Saidu Namaska, has died after a protracted illness.
The Emir, who is known as the Sarkin Sudan, Kontagora is one of the longest reigning monarchs in Niger State and Nigeria.
He died in Abuja on Thursday at 84.
The monarch spent 47 years on the throne, having ascended to the stool in 1974 as the sixth Sarkin Sudan, Kontagora.
In a condolence message, Niger Governor Abubakar Sani-Bello lamented Namaska’s demise.
The Governor described the Emir as a man of peace who ensured tranquility in his emirate throughout his reign.
The traditional ruler, he said, was an asset to Kontagora emirate due to his fatherly role to all.
“The death of a loved one is painful more so, the death of a father figure no matter how old he must have lived.
“Sarkin Sudan was an asset to us in Kontagora Emirate, he served humanity with commitment and patriotism while he was alive. Losing him will really create a vacuum, but I am consoled by the fact that whatever Allah does is right.
“All we need to do now is to pray for Allah’s forgiveness on the soul of the late Emir, and grant him Aljahna Firdausi”, he said.
He prayed that God will give the entire family members of the late Emir, Kontagora emirate, and all who are associated with the Emir the fortitude to bear the great loss.
The State Government announced that the Janazah prayer takes place on Thursday at the Palace of Sarkin Sudan, Kontagora by 4:00 pm.
The late Sarkin Sudan of Kontagora is survived by wives, children and great-grandchildren.
The Nation