The Zazzau Emirate in Kaduna State has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of a prominent traditional ruler, Rilwan Yahaya Pate, the Sarkin Yakin Zazzau. The respected district head reportedly slumped while attending an official function alongside the Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, on Thursday.
Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred at the Hajiya Gambo Sawaba General Hospital in Kofar Gayan, Zaria, where dignitaries had gathered for an engagement. The monarch was immediately rushed to the hospital’s emergency unit, but despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly afterward.
Shock and Grief in Zazzau
The news of his sudden demise spread quickly, leaving the Zazzau Emirate in deep sorrow. The Emir of Zazzau, visibly shaken by the incident, expressed his condolences and described the loss as a tragic event for the entire emirate.
“This is the will of Allah, and we must accept it as mortals,” the Emir stated in his condolence message. “Death is inevitable and can come at any moment. We have lost a hardworking, dedicated, and religious leader whose vacuum will be difficult to fill.”
Official Confirmation from the Emirate Council
The Zazzau Emirate Council confirmed the incident through its Media and Publicity Officer, Abdullahi Aliyu Kwarbai, who released an official statement.
“It is with great sadness that the Zazzau Emirate Council announces the passing of Sarkin Yakin Zazzau, Alhaji Rilwanu Yahaya Pate, a Council Member of the Emirate. He passed away while attending a program alongside His Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, CFR, at Hajiya Gambo Sawaba General Hospital, Kofan Gayan, Zaria, this morning,” the statement read.
The late Sarkin Yakin was a key member of the Emirate Council and had been actively involved in health-related matters. His contributions to community development, especially in health services, earned him great respect among the people of Zaria and beyond.
Final Rites and Burial
Following Islamic rites, the remains of Alhaji Rilwan Yahaya Pate were laid to rest later that evening at Rimin Dodo, in accordance with Islamic tradition. His funeral was attended by family members, government officials, and traditional rulers who paid their last respects.
Tributes Pour In
Prominent figures from within and outside Kaduna State have continued to pay tribute to the late monarch. Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, expressed his condolences, describing the late Sarkin Yakin as a pillar of the Zazzau Emirate who dedicated his life to the service of his people.
“The sudden passing of Alhaji Rilwan Yahaya Pate is a great loss not only to the Zazzau Emirate but to Kaduna State as a whole. He was a man of wisdom, integrity, and service. May his soul rest in peace,” Governor Sani said.
Similarly, a former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, also mourned his passing, recalling his commitment to the development of Zaria and his unwavering support for the traditional institution. “His contributions to health and community service will forever be remembered,” El-Rufai remarked.
A Legacy of Service
Alhaji Rilwan Yahaya Pate was well-regarded for his leadership and dedication to improving the well-being of the people under his jurisdiction. As the Councillor in charge of Health Matters in the Zazzau Emirate Council, he played a pivotal role in advancing healthcare initiatives, including public health awareness campaigns and support for local hospitals.
His leadership style, marked by humility and an open-door policy, made him a beloved figure among his people. Those who worked closely with him praised his commitment to fostering unity and development in Zaria.
Mourning Across Northern Nigeria
The news of his death has sent shockwaves across the traditional institutions in Northern Nigeria, with various Emirate Councils and religious leaders extending their condolences. The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, also expressed his sympathies, urging the Zazzau Emirate to remain strong in this period of mourning.
Health Concerns Among Traditional Rulers
The sudden passing of the Sarkin Yakin Zazzau has reignited discussions about the health challenges faced by Nigeria’s traditional rulers. With many of them actively involved in governance and community engagements, the stress and pressure of their roles often take a toll on their health.
Some analysts have called for increased medical check-ups and better healthcare access for traditional leaders to prevent such unexpected tragedies in the future.
