Jigawa gov appoints Sani 17th Emir of Gumel

Jigawa state governor, Umar Namadi.

Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has approved the appointment of Dr Lawan Ahmed Muhammad Sani as the 17th Emir of Gumel Emirate, three days after the death of his father.

The announcement was made by the Secretary to the State Government, Bala Ibrahim, during a press briefing at the Nigeria Union of Journalists Secretariat in Dutse, the state capital, on Sunday.

“Following due consultations with the Gumel Emirate Council, kingmakers, and in accordance with the Jigawa State Emirate Council Law, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, has approved the appointment of Dr Lawan Ahmed Muhammad Sani as the new Emir of Gumel,” the SSG said.

Ibrahim said the appointment took effect immediately to ensure continuity of leadership and stability in the emirate following the death of the former emir.

“This appointment takes effect immediately in order to fill the vacuum created by the passing of His Royal Highness and to sustain peace, unity and development in Gumel Emirate,” he stated.

The SSG described Lawan as a worthy successor, noting his years of service to the emirate.

“Dr Lawan Ahmed Muhammad Sani previously served diligently as the Ciroman Gumel during the reign of his late father. His experience, education and deep understanding of the traditions of Gumel make him eminently qualified for this exalted throne,” Ibrahim said.

He added that the new emir’s background would enable him to build on his father’s legacies.

“Having served as Ciroman Gumel, Dr Lawan is not new to the people. He understands the challenges and aspirations of Gumel and Jigawa State at large. Government is confident he will provide purposeful and exemplary leadership,” the SSG said.

According to Ibrahim, Namadi urged the people of Gumel to rally behind the new emir.

“His Excellency calls on all sons and daughters of Gumel Emirate to give their maximum support and cooperation to the new Emir for the overall peace and progress of the emirate,” he quoted the governor as saying.

The SSG also prayed for the repose of the late emir and assured residents of the government’s commitment to traditional institutions.

“On behalf of the government and good people of Jigawa State, we pray Almighty Allah to grant the late Emir Aljannatul Firdaus. Government remains committed to preserving our traditional institutions as custodians of culture and unity,” he said.

Ibrahim said the governor would present the staff of office to the new emir at a ceremony to be held in due course.

“In due course, His Excellency will present the staff of office to the 17th Emir of Gumel in a ceremony befitting his status. We urge all stakeholders to cooperate with government for a hitch-free event,” the SSG added.