The Emir of Gumel in Jigawa State, Alhaji Dr Ahmed Muhammad Sani, has died at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness.

The monarch reportedly died on Thursday while receiving medical treatment in Egypt.

A palace source confirmed the development, saying the traditional institution would announce details of his burial arrangements.

“He died while receiving treatment in Egypt. The palace would announce burial arrangements later,” the source said.

The monarch’s death has plunged the Gumel Emirate and the wider Jigawa State into mourning, with condolences and tributes expected from political leaders, traditional rulers, community leaders and residents.

The late emir was regarded as a prominent traditional ruler whose reign contributed to the preservation of the cultural heritage of the Gumel Emirate and the promotion of peace and unity among its people.

Before ascending the throne, Sani had a notable career in public service. He served as Commissioner for Information, Internal Affairs and Culture in the former Kano State Government between 1978 and 1980.

During his tenure as commissioner, he was involved in the establishment of the Triumph Newspaper and CTV67, now known as ARTV. He also supervised the expansion of Radio Kano.

His death is expected to be particularly felt within the royal family, the traditional council, title holders and residents of the historic Gumel Emirate.

The Gumel Emirate is one of the longstanding traditional institutions in northern Nigeria and has played a significant role in the social, cultural and community affairs of the people.