By Munir Assalafiy
Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un.
Nigeria has lost one of its finest patriots and respected traditional rulers with the passing of His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zuru, Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sani Sami (Rtd.), Gomo II, who died on Saturday night in a London hospital at the age of 81.
Born in 1943, the late Emir dedicated his life to service—both in the military and as a custodian of culture and tradition.
He was commissioned into the Nigerian Army where he rose through the ranks with distinction, serving his country in various capacities with honor and integrity.
A decorated officer, he retired as a Major-General after decades of meritorious service to the Nigerian Armed Forces.
From January 1984 to August 1985, he served as Military Governor of Bauchi State under the Buhari regime. His administration focused on upgrading medical infrastructure and spearheaded the “Back to Land” agriculture initiative. Notably, the World Handball Championship was successfully hosted in Bauchi during his tenure .
In 1985, Gen. Sami was appointed as the Military Governor of the old Kaduna State during the administration of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida. His tenure was marked by discipline, infrastructural development, and a commitment to peace and security in a state that was diverse and complex in its socio-political composition. He is remembered as a principled and courageous leader who upheld the values of justice and fairness.
Following his retirement from active service, he ascended the throne as the Emir of Zuru, where he became a unifying figure and a beacon of wisdom to his people. Under his reign, the Zuru Emirate witnessed remarkable stability, progress, and the preservation of cherished cultural values. He worked tirelessly to advance education, agriculture, and security within his domain, while also serving as a voice of reason in national affairs.
The late Emir was widely respected across Nigeria as a statesman, disciplinarian, and bridge-builder whose words commanded attention and whose actions reflected sincerity. He carried himself with humility and dignity, inspiring generations with his legacy of selfless service.
His passing is not only a huge loss to the Zuru Emirate and Kebbi State but also to the entire nation. Nigeria has indeed lost a patriot, a decorated soldier, and a monarch who embodied integrity, service, and courage.
We pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) forgives his shortcomings, admits him into Aljannatul Firdaus, and grants his family, the Zuru Emirate, Kebbi State, and all Nigerians the fortitude to bear this painful loss.
May his soul rest in peace.
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