Emir of Zurmi, Bello Suleiman, dies after five years on throne

The Emir of Zurmi in Zamfara State, Bello Suleiman, has died after five years on the traditional throne.

The traditional ruler died on Monday afternoon at the Federal Medical Centre Gusau, according to a statement issued by the palace.

The circumstances surrounding his death were not immediately disclosed.

Suleiman ascended the throne in 2021, succeeding his uncle, Abubakar Atiku, who was deposed by the Zamfara State Government that year and formally removed from office in April 2022.

Atiku was removed alongside the Emir of Dansadau, Hussaini Umar, over alleged links to banditry and interference with security operations. He later died at a hospital in Egypt.

Read Also:

Two killed, APC chairman missing after gunmen attack in Kano

Kano: Gunmen kill APC chairman, resident in Bebeji

Kogi police rescue all 21 abducted victims, including 15 corps members

The late Emir Bello Suleiman’s reign was marked by the worsening security challenges affecting Zurmi and surrounding communities.

In May 2024, suspected bandits invaded Zurmi, reportedly ransacked the emir’s palace and killed three security personnel stationed at the palace gate.

Several residents were also abducted during the attack, including the emir’s chief detail, known as Shamaki, Buhari Yusuf, as well as Aliyu Ahmed and Sa’idu Lawali.

The attackers reportedly vandalised a local telecommunications facility, apparently to disrupt communication and hinder security reinforcements during the operation.

Residents said the attackers had targeted the emir for abduction, accusing him of failing to intervene over what they described as the maltreatment of Fulani residents by local vigilantes.

The death of the traditional ruler comes amid continuing security challenges in Zamfara, particularly in communities affected by banditry and kidnapping.

Zurmi, located near the border with the Niger Republic and sharing a boundary with Katsina State, is one of the major towns in Zamfara and the second most populous after the state capital, Gusau.

The palace is expected to announce further details concerning the funeral arrangements and succession process.