Thousands gather as Emir of Gumel laid to rest

Thousands of mourners, traditional rulers, political leaders and dignitaries from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries gathered in Gumel, Jigawa State, on Friday for the funeral prayer of the late Emir of Gumel, Alhaji Ahmad Muhammad Sani II, who died at the age of 85.

The funeral prayer was held at the palace of the late monarch in Gumel Emirate in the afternoon of Friday, September 4, 2026, following his death in Cairo, Egypt, on Thursday, September 3, after a period of illness.

The late Emir, who was born in 1942, spent decades serving as a traditional leader and custodian of the culture, history and values of the Gumel Emirate.

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The funeral attracted prominent personalities, including Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, who led a delegation from the Presidency, as well as Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi.

The governors of Kano and other northern states also witnessed the funeral.

Senior politicians, government officials, traditional rulers including emirs of Kano, Jigawa and other dignitaries from different parts of the country also attended the funeral to pay their final respects to the deceased monarch.

The ancient town of Gumel was reportedly filled with mourners as residents and visitors converged on the emirate to bid farewell to the monarch.

The late Emir was survived by approximately 33 children, 21 males and 12 females, and numerous grandchildren.

Speaking during the funeral, Vice President Shettima prayed for Allah to forgive the deceased monarch, grant him eternal rest and reward his good deeds.

He also prayed for Allah to give members of the late Emir’s family, the people of Gumel Emirate and the government and people of Jigawa State the strength and patience to bear the loss.