by Isi Esene

Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote has expressed his sadness over the news of the death of the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero who died this morning.

The Emir who died at the age of 83 took over rulership of the Emirate in 1963.

In his reaction, Dangote said he was saddened by the Emir’s death and prayed that  Allah to gives him rest.

“(I am) Saddened to hear about the great loss of our father, HRH, Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Abdullah Bayero. May Allah grant him Aljannatul Firdausi.

“My heart goes out to his family and the entire people of Kano State,” Dangote said.

Similarly, President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed his grief at the Emir’s death. In a statement signed by Reuben Abati, the special assistant to the president on media and publicity, Jonathan said he received the news “with immense sadness and a deep feeling of great national loss.”

President Jonathan said the Emir will always be remembered for his wisdom and competence as a traditional ruler.

“President Jonathan believes that Alhaji Ado Bayero will always be
remembered and honoured by the people of Kano and all Nigerians for his immense wisdom and competence as a traditional ruler, as well as for using his exalted throne to build bridges of unity, friendship and harmony across the nation,” he said.

Jonathan prays that God will receive the late Emir’s soul and grant the good people of Kano a worthy successor who will carry on his good works.