Shettima: Late Emir of Ngazargamu Exemplified Institutional History and Peace

Attends royal father’s funeral in Yobe, describes him as a symbol of unity, progress

Deji Elumoye in Anuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima said Nigerians could learn much from the life and legacy of the late Emir of Ngazargamu, HRH Tijjani Ahmed Ibn‑Saleh, who died in Cairo, Egypt, after a prolonged illness.

Speaking to journalists in Damaturu, the capital of Yobe State, shortly after the Emir’s burial, Shettima praised the monarch as “a symbol of unity, peace and progress.” He urged citizens, especially the youth, to continue pursuing education, a principle the Emir championed.

“He led a good life; he was an advocate of education as a tool for social enhancement. He lived well and died honourably. May Allah grant his soul eternal rest,” he said.

Shettima also prayed for divine consolation for the Emir’s family and the repose of his soul.

The Vice President had earlier joined the jumma’at congregational prayer at the Yobe Islamic Centre in Damaturu, where he was accompanied by other Muslim faithful to observe the funeral rites for the late Emir of Ngazargamu.

Shettima later conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s and the federal government’s condolences to the Emir’s immediate family at the Yobe State Presidential Lodge in Damaturu.

During the jumma’at prayers, Imam Ustaz Hudu Mohammed of the Yobe Islamic Centre urged Nigerians to maintain a fear of God, reminding them that wealth comes from God and that success depends on reliance on the Almighty. He also prayed for peace and progress in Nigeria and urged citizens to pray for their leaders.

Dignitaries who attended the funeral included Yobe State Governor Mai Mala‑Bunni; former Senate President Senator Ahmed Lawan; former Vice President Babagana Kingibe; Senator Danjuma Goje; Senator Kaka Shehu; Shehu of Borno, HRH Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El‑Kanem; and Emir of Fika, Muhammadu Abali Ibn Muhammadu Idrissa, among others.