The District Head of Gwandu in Kebbi State, Alhaji Muhammadu Rasheed, popularly known as Sarkin Gabas, died on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. Two senior aides to Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris confirmed the death, which has plunged the state's traditional institution into mourning.
Officials Confirm the Passing of Sarkin Gabas
According to The Punch, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ahmed Idris, and the Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Abdullahi Idris, both confirmed the traditional ruler's demise. The Sun Nigeria also reported the sad development.
Abdullahi Idris announced that the funeral prayer for the late traditional ruler would take place at the Palace of the Emir of Gwandu in Birnin Kebbi at 3 pm on the same day. "His Royal Highness passed away today, and the burial prayer will be performed at the Emir of Gwandu's Palace, Birnin Kebbi, by 3pm. May his soul rest in peace," he said.
Succession and Family Legacy of the Late District Head
The Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy also revealed that the late district head had succeeded his father, the late Alhaji Muhammadu Bashar Mai-Wurno, who was the eldest son of the late Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Haruna Rasheed. This lineage places the deceased within the core of Gwandu's traditional ruling family.
The death comes days after the state also lost the Emir of Gumel, Alhaji Ahmed Muhammad Sani III, the 16th Emir of Gumel, who was known for his contributions to public service before ascending the throne.
Governor Nasir Idris Shocked by Sudden Death
Chief Press Secretary Ahmed Idris described the passing as a major blow to Kebbi State and its traditional institutions. He stated that Governor Muhammed Nasir Idris, who is currently in the United States attending the United Nations General Assembly alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, was caught off guard by the news.
"The death of the District Head of Gwandu is a great loss to Kebbi State and the traditional institution. The governor, who is currently in the United States attending the United Nations General Assembly alongside the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, was shocked by the sudden death of the traditional ruler," Ahmed Idris said.
The governor's aide called on God to forgive the deceased's shortcomings and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. He also prayed that God grant the family of the late district head, the people of Gwandu, and all of Kebbi State the strength to bear the loss. The funeral prayer scheduled for 3 pm at the Emir of Gwandu's Palace marks the immediate next step in the state's observance of the traditional ruler's passing.
