Emir of Kontagora dies three months after his heir was killed by bandits

His Royal Highness, Emir of Kontagora in Niger State, Alhaji Saidu Namaska, is dead.

The traditional ruler died at a hospital in Abuja on Thursday morning, September 9, after a protracted illness.

The Sarkin Sudan Kontagora died at the age of 84 after 47 years on the throne.

His death comes three months after his eldest son and heir, Bashar Saidu Namaska was murdered by bandits at Masuga village close to Kontagora.

No official statement has been issued from the family and palace but Niger State Governor, Abubakar Sani Bello, confirmed the development in a statement on Thursday.

The Governor eulogized the traditional ruler describing him as a man of peace who ensured peace and tranquility in his emirate throughout his reign.

Governor Sani Bello said the deceased Emir was so much an asset to the entire people of Kontagora emirate owing to his fatherly role to all.

He acknowledged that Sarkin Sudan served humanity with all sincerity, commitment and dedication pointing out that the Emir will be greatly missed for his wise counsel.

“The death of a loved one is painful more so, the death of a father figure no matter how old he must have lived,” the Governor said.

“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 equally prayed Allah to 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.