Prominent Yobe Emir, Ahmad Tijjani Ibn-Saleh, dies in Cairo

By Nabilu Balarabe

The death of Emir of Gazargamu Alhaji Ahmad Tijjani Ibn-Saleh after a prolonged illness in Cairo, Egypt has thrown his community and Yobe State into mourning.

The death of the Emir was announced in a statement signed by the Waziri of Gazargamu, Alhaji Muhammad Baba-Kankare, in Damaturu on Tuesday.

Gazargamu, located in Geidam town, is the ancient historical capital of the Kanem-Bornu Empire.

Baba-Kankare said the first-class chief passed away on Tuesday in Cairo, Egypt, where he had been receiving medical treatment.

“The remains of the late Emir will be transported back to Nigeria for funeral rites in Damaturu, at a later date and time to be announced later.

“The Emirate council calls for prayers for the repose of the soul of this great leader, our respected traditional ruler, custodian of the rich tradition and culture of the historic Ngazargamu emirate,” he said.

The late Emir who passed away at 80 was a first-class traditional ruler in Yobe and had been on the throne for 34 years, having been appointed in 1992.

The deceased was born in 1946 in Mairari, Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe.

Ibn-Saleh was educated at Geidam Elementary School, Yerwa Senior Primary School, and the Institute of Administration, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

He also held a Higher Islamic Teachers Certificate and Diploma in Sharia and Civil Law.

Before his ascension to the throne, the late Emir Ibn-Saleh was a teacher, an Area Court Assistant Registrar, Chairman of Geidam Local Government and Commissioner for Agriculture in old Borno.

In May 2020, he was appointed Chancellor of the Yobe State University.

Meanwhile, Kashim Tumsah, a lawyer and development advocate has described the late Emir Ibn-Saleh, as an epitome of humility, wisdom and courage.

Tumsah, a former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in the state, stated this in Damaturu on Tuesday while mourning the death of the first-class chief.

He described the death of the Emir as a monumental loss not only to the people of the Gazargamu Emirate, but also to the entire Yobe State and beyond.

“The late Emir was a true leader, a source of wisdom, guidance, and peace. His contributions to the progress, unity, and development of his people will never be forgotten.

“He embodied the values of humility, service, and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him,” he said.

The lawyer prayed to the Almighty Allah to continue to guide and bless the people of the Gazargamu Emirate during this difficult time, hoping that the memory of the late Emir would inspire them to emulate his integrity and compassion.

In his own tribute, Mr Tijjani Bala, a son of the deceased, described his father as a mentor and traditional ruler whose life was devoted to the service of his people and humanity.

Bala, the General Manager of the Yobe State Road Maintenance Agency (YORMA), said the late Emir’s fatherly guidance, leadership and legacy would remain a source of inspiration to the entire people of Gazargamu.

(NAN)