Emir of Kontagora is dead

Saidu Namaska, the Emir of Kontagora, Niger state, is dead.

The emir died at 84 after spending 47 years on the throne.

He reportedly died at a hospital in the federal capital territory (FCT) after a protracted illness.

In a statement on Thursday, Mary Noel-Berje, chief press secretary to Abubakar Sani Bello, Niger governor, quoted her principal as describing him as a man of peace.

Noel-Berje said the late emir served humanity with commitment and patriotism.

“The death of a loved one is painful more so, the death of a father figure no matter how old he must have lived,” the CPS said.

“Sarkin Sudan was an asset to us in Kontagora Emirate, he served humanity with commitment and patriotism while he was alive.

“Losing him will really create a vacuum, but I am consoled by the fact that whatever Allah does is right.

“All we need to do now is to pray for Allah’s forgiveness on the soul of the late Emir, and grant him Aljahna Firdausi.”