JUST-IN: Top Kaduna Traditional Title Holder Dies After Slumping at Public Function

Alhaji Rilwan Yahaya Pate, a prominent member of the Zazzau Emirate Council and holder of the traditional title of Sarkin Yakin Zazzau, passed away on Thursday after slumping during a public function. The incident occurred while he was attending an event with the Emir of Zazzau, HRH Amb. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, at the Hajiya Gambo Sawaba General Hospital in Zaria, Kaduna State.

The Zazzau Emirate Council confirmed the tragic news in a statement issued by the Media and Publicity Officer, Abdullahi Aliyu Kwarbai. It was revealed that Alhaji Pate, who also served as a Councillor responsible for Health-Related Matters, was attending the program when the sudden collapse occurred. Despite efforts to provide assistance, he passed away shortly after at the hospital.

Following Islamic traditions, the late Sarkin Yakin Zazzau was laid to rest at Rimin Dodo in Zaria later in the evening.

In a message of condolence, the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing it as “the will of Allah.” He acknowledged the late Sarkin Yakin Zazzau as a hardworking, dedicated, and religious individual, emphasizing that his absence would leave a significant void in the Emirate. The Emir prayed for the deceased’s soul to rest in eternal peace and extended condolences to the family of the late titleholder.