A high-ranking member of the Zazzau Emirate Council, Alhaji Rilwan Yahaya Pate, tragically passed away on Thursday after collapsing during an official event in Zaria, Kaduna State.
The late Sarkin Yakin Zazzau was attending the program alongside the Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, when he suddenly lost consciousness. He was immediately taken to Gambo Sawaba General Hospital in Kofar Gayan, where he was later pronounced dead.
The Zazzau Emirate Council confirmed the incident in an official statement released by its Media and Publicity Officer, Abdullahi Aliyu Kwarbai.
The statement read:
“With deep sorrow, the Zazzau Emirate Council announces the passing of Alhaji Rilwanu Yahaya Pate, Sarkin Yakin Zazzau, who was also a Council Member overseeing health-related matters. He passed away while attending a program alongside His Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, CFR, at Gambo Sawaba General Hospital, Kofan Gayan, Zaria.”
Following Islamic rites, his remains were laid to rest at Rimin Dodo on Thursday evening.
Expressing his condolences, Emir Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli described the loss as “the will of Allah,” emphasizing that “death is inevitable and occurs at a time predestined by the Almighty.”
He extended heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family and praised the late district head for his dedication, integrity, and religious devotion, stating that his absence would be deeply felt within the Emirate.
The Emir offered prayers for his soul, asking for eternal rest and peace.
