Thousands of mourners, traditional rulers, political leaders and 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, who died at the age of 85.
The Independent Mirror reports that the funeral prayer was held at the late monarch’s palace in Gumel on Friday afternoon, September 4, 2026, following his death in Cairo, Egypt, on Thursday, September 3, after a period of illness.
The late Emir, who was born in 1942, spent decades serving as a traditional leader and custodian of the culture, history and values of the Gumel Emirate.
The funeral attracted prominent personalities, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, who led a delegation from the Presidency, the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, Abba Kabiru Yusuf, Kano state governor, and Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi.
The governors of Kano and other northern states also attended the funeral, alongside senior politicians, government officials, traditional rulers and other dignitaries from different parts of the country who gathered to pay their final respects to the deceased monarch.
The ancient town of Gumel was reportedly filled with mourners as residents and visitors converged on the emirate to bid farewell to the late Emir.
The late monarch is survived by approximately 33 children—21 males and 12 females—as well as numerous grandchildren.
Speaking during the funeral, Vice President Shettima prayed for Allah to forgive the deceased monarch, grant him eternal rest and reward his good deeds.
He 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 and patience to bear the loss.
