The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of two prominent Northern figures; retired Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sani Sami, Emir of Zuru in Kebbi and Alhaji Isyaku Ibrahim, a veteran politician and renowned businessman.
This is contained in a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of the forum, Prof. Tanko Muhammad-Baba, on Sunday in Kaduna.
The ACF described the late emir, aged 81, and Alhaji Ibrahim, aged 89, as illustrious sons of Northern Nigeria whose contributions to national development, regional advancement, and community service would be long remembered.
“The deaths of these two distinguished individuals are huge losses to Arewa and Nigeria at large,” Muhammad-Baba said.
Gen. Sani Sami, who bore the traditional title Gomo II, was a decorated military officer who joined the Nigerian Army in 1962 and served with distinction during the Nigerian Civil War between 1967 and 1970.
He later held various high-level military positions, including Commandant of the Brigade of Guards and Military Governor of Bauchi State.
Following his retirement from active service, he was installed as the Emir of Zuru, a position he held until his passing.
ACF stated that his life was marked by “devotion to nation, community, and humanity.”
Alhaji Isyaku Ibrahim, on his part, was celebrated by the forum for his long-standing role in Nigerian politics and business.
A founding member of the Board of Trustees of both the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and later the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), he was also known for his philanthropic activities and commitment to sports development.
He was widely respected for his principled stance on national issues and his efforts in defending democratic norms, including his alleged role in resisting the controversial attempted abduction of the late politician Umaru Dikko during the military era.
“The Arewa Consultative Forum will forever cherish the legacies and memories of these great men,” he added.
ACF extended its condolences to the families of the deceased, the governments and people of Kebbi and Nasarawa State, as well as Nigerians at home and abroad.
The forum also prayed for the peaceful repose of their souls in Aljannat Firdaus(NAN)
