Nigeria's Ousted Emir of Zurmi Dead

AGENCIES | Nigeria – Atiku Abubakar Muhammad, the recently ousted emir of Zurmi in Zamfara State who was accused of supporting bandits operating in his territory, has reportedly passed away.

According to information reaching this site, Atiku passed away in a private hospital in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, after battling an unidentified illness.

A family member named Sani Zurmi confirmed the news.

He stated that the deceased’s remains had not yet been transported to Nigeria for burial.

“His remains are still in Dubai due to non-availability of plight to bring the deceased back home for burial,” Zurmi was quoted as saying.

Recall that the Governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle had in June 2021, suspended Atiku from being the Emir of Zurmi over his alleged involvement with bandits‘ activities in the kingdom.

Matawalle ordered the formation of a strong commission to investigate allegations that the suspended king was involved in the escalation of banditry activities in his area.

A statement issued by the acting secretary to the governor, Kabiru Balarabe, had revealed that the commission of inquiry into the suspended Emir of Zurmi would consist of eight members, headed by the state deputy governor, Ibrahim Wakkala, and would submit its report within three weeks.

Atiku was subsequently dethroned alongside the Emir of Dansadau, Husaini Umar for allegedly aiding banditry in their respective emirates.