By: John Bassey, Kebbi.
Kebbi State recently witnessed a historic blend of sorrow and hope as it bade farewell to a highly revered monarch, His Royal Highness, retired Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sani Sami, Gomo II, while welcoming a new Emir, Alhaji Sanusi Mikailu Sami, Gomo III.The transition marked both an end and a beginning, closing the chapter of an extraordinary life of service while opening a new era under a leader widely acclaimed as the people’s choice.
The funeral prayer for the late Emir was held on Friday 22nd August, 2025 at Zuru immediately after Jumu’at prayers. It drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, reflecting the immense respect and influence the Emir commanded.
The Vice President of Nigeria, Sen. Kashim Shettima, led the Federal Government delegation, joining Gov. Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu) and other high-profile personalities to pay their last respects.
Among the distinguished attendees were the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Emirs of Kano, Argungu, Yauri, Gummi, Anka, Borgu, the Etsu Nupe, and other traditional rulers. The Nigerian Army also honoured the former military officer with a ceremonial parade.
Speaking during the condolence visit, Vice President Shettima described the Emir’s death as “a great loss to the nation,” adding:
“Today is a sad day for the people of Kebbi and indeed for Nigeria. I am here on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to convey his heartfelt condolences to Gov. Nasir Idris, the family of our late Emir, the Zuru Emirate, and the entire people of the North. May Allah grant him eternal rest in Aljannah Firdaus and give his family and the people the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”
Gov. Idris, on his part, ensured that the burial was dignified and hitch-free by constituting several committees, including a main organizing committee under the Zuru Emirate Council chaired by the Chief of Wasagu, Alhaji Muktari Musa, and a state government delegation led by the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Alhaji Muhammad Usman.
Beyond his status as a traditional ruler, the late Emir was celebrated for his wisdom, humility, and strong advocacy for development. Throughout his reign, Maj.-Gen. Sani Sami II maintained a warm and respectful relationship with Gov. Nasir Idris.
He often lauded the Governor’s developmental strides, particularly people-oriented projects that touched lives across Kebbi State. One such project was the landmark 87-kilometre Koko–Dabai road, which he described as a transformation for Zuru Emirate.
“Now you can reach Birnin Kebbi in two hours instead of six,” the Emir once remarked with delight.
The Emir’s commendations reflected his genuine recognition of the Governor’s efforts in security, infrastructure, and strengthening traditional institutions. His partnership with Gov. Idris stood as a model of mutual respect and collaboration for progress.
Following the passing of Gomo II, attention shifted to the selection of a successor, the dawn of a new Era: Sami Gomo 111 Emerges—a process that in many parts of Northern Nigeria has historically been marred by controversy and external influence.
However, under Gov. Idris’s watch, the Zuru Emirate witnessed a transparent and peaceful transition.
With over 30 Princes vying for the throne, the stakes were high. Yet, one candidate stood out: Alhaji Sanusi Mikailu Sami, son of Mika’ilu Sami (elder brother to the late Emir).
The new Emir of Zuru, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi Mika’ilu Sami, Gomo 111 is from the lineage of the late Emir Muhammadu Sani Sami, Gomo II. His humility, accessibility, and deep-rooted respect for tradition earned him overwhelming public support.
Gov. Idris, renowned for fairness and integrity, insisted on due process, allowing the kingmakers to perform their duties without interference. The result was a choice that reflected the collective will of the people. The Governor’s swift ratification of the decision has since been hailed as a triumph of justice and leadership.
The New Emir Speaks: A Future-Driven Vision
In his first public remarks, the new Emir expressed deep gratitude to Gov. Idris for his leadership and to the people of the Emirate for their unwavering support. He pledged to work closely with the Governor to build a prosperous Zuru, emphasizing improved infrastructure and security.
He said, “With the intervention of Gov. Nasir Idris, Zuru will become a hub of progress, with roads linking us to major cities. Today, vehicles can even fly on the Koko–Dabai road,” the Emir said with optimism.”
He also lauded the Governor’s role in ensuring a seamless succession process, commending the kingmakers and security agencies for their contributions to peace and stability.
Promising a reign marked by justice, fairness, and inclusivity, Gomo III reaffirmed his determination to sustain the unity and progress of Zuru Emirate, describing Governor Idris as the true “Garkuwan Zuru” (Shield of Zuru).
A Legacy of Unity, A Future of Hope
The transition from Gomo II to Gomo III is a defining moment for Kebbi State, a reminder of the enduring bond between traditional institutions and democratic governance. As the Emirate mourns a revered monarch and embraces a new leader, one constant remains: the commitment to unity, peace, and progress under the guidance of leaders who place the people first.
May the legacy of the late Emir continue to inspire, and may the new Emir’s reign usher in a brighter chapter for Zuru Emirate and Kebbi State at large.