Kaduna monarch collapses, dies at public event

The Sarkin Yakin Zazzau, Rilwan Pate, has tragically passed away after collapsing while attending an event in Zaria, Kaduna State.  

Reports indicate that he was with the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, on Thursday when the incident occurred.

Late Pate, a council member of the Zazzau Emirate and the councillor in charge of health, reportedly slumped during the occasion, leading to his sudden demise.

“He was rushed to the Gambo Sawaba General Hospital, Kofar Gayan Zaria, where he was confirmed dead,” said an anonymous staff member of the Emirate.

In a statement, the Zazzau Emirate Council confirmed the incident.

The statement issued by the media and publicity officer of the Zazzau Emirate, Abdullahi Kwarbai, expressed sadness over the death of Alhaji Rilwanu Yahaya Pate.

“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,” the statement added.

Emir Bamalli condoled with the family of the deceased on the death, which he described as “the will of Allah.”

“Death is inevitable and can come whenever Allah destined,” the Emir said.

He described the deceased as hard-working, dedicated, and very religious, whose vacuum will not easily be replaced.

The deceased has since been buried, according to Islamic injunctions.