By Najib Sani
Bauchi
Representative of President Muhammadu Buhari, Jigawa and Borno states governors were among thousands of sympathisers that attended the funeral prayer of the 11th Emir of Katagum, the late Alhaji Muhammad Kabir Umar, who died on Saturday after a protracted illness.
The prayer, which was led by the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, was also attended by members of the National Assembly, ministers and other top government functionaries from across the country.
Buhari was represented by his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abba Kyari, who led the federal government delegation, including the Minister of FCT, Malam Muhammad Bello, Comptroller General of Customs Service, retired Colonel Hamid Ali and other top government functionaries.
In his condolence message, Bauchi state Governor, Mohammed Abubakar, described the death of the deceased as a great loss not only to the state but the nation at large.
He said the late emir contributed positively towards the development of Katagum emirate, Bauchi and the nation.
Governor Abubakar prayed Allah to grant his soul eternal rest and his family and the people of the state the courage to bear the loss.
Late Emir of Katagum died at the age of 89 and is survived by four wives and 49 children; among whom are Alhaji Baba Umar , a retired Federal Permanent Secretary who is also the District Head of Shira.
Late Alhaji Muhammad Kabir Umar has since been buried in the ancient town of Katagum, headquarters of Zaki local government area.
