Thousands Gather in Gumel as Emir Ahmad Muhammad Sani II Is Buried

Thousands of mourners, traditional rulers, political leaders and other dignitaries from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries gathered in Gumel, Jigawa State, on Friday for the funeral prayer of the late Emir of Gumel, Alhaji Ahmad Muhammad Sani II.

The monarch died at the age of 85 in Cairo, Egypt, on Thursday, September 3, 2026, following a period of illness.

The funeral prayer was held at the palace of the late emir in Gumel Emirate on Friday afternoon, with residents and visitors converging on the ancient town to pay their final respects.

Among the dignitaries at the funeral was Vice President Kashim Shettima, who led a delegation from the Presidency, as well as Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi.

Governors from Kano and other northern states also attended the funeral alongside senior politicians, government officials and traditional rulers.

The gathering included the emirs of Kano, Jigawa and other traditional leaders who travelled to Gumel to honour the late monarch and condole with his family and the people of the emirate.

The town was reportedly filled with mourners as residents and visitors joined the funeral rites for the traditional ruler, who was widely regarded as a custodian of the culture, history and traditions of the Gumel Emirate.

Born in 1942, the late Emir spent decades in traditional leadership, serving the people of Gumel and preserving the customs and values of the emirate.

He was survived by about 33 children, comprising 21 males and 12 females, as well as numerous grandchildren.

Speaking at the funeral, Vice President Shettima prayed for Allah to forgive the late monarch, grant him eternal rest and reward his good deeds.

Shettima also prayed for Allah to grant members of the late emir’s family, the people of Gumel Emirate and the government and people of Jigawa State the strength, patience and fortitude to bear the loss.

The funeral brought together political and traditional leaders from different parts of the country, reflecting the significance of the late emir’s role in the Gumel Emirate and beyond.