Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of one of his close confidants and traditional title holder, Alhaji Gimba, Galadima Raba Nupe.

Abubakar said this shortly after the burial rites of Alhaji Gimba at Maasaba Mosque on Saturday in Bida.

The royal father described the death of the Galadima Raba Nupe as a very painful and an irreparable loss to the Kin Nupe, Bida Emirate and the entire Niger state.

The Etsu Nupe said the late Galadima Raba was not only a loyal title holder but also a trusted adviser whose wisdom, commitment and dedication to the progress of the Nupe Kingdom would be greatly missed.

He stated that the deceased lived a life of service to humanity, his community and the traditional institution.

Abubakar added that his contributions to peace, unity and development in Nupe land would remain indelible.

“His death is indeed a painful one for me personally, for the Bida Emirate Council and for all who knew him. 

“We have lost a man of honour, integrity and humility,” the traditional ruler said.

The Etsu Nupe stated that the death of the Galadima Raba Nupe had created a big vacuum in the emirate which would be too difficult to fill.

“He was a pillar of support to me and a rallying point for many, his wise counsel and calm approach to issues will be greatly missed,” he said.

Abubakar also described the deceased as a dependable leader and community builder whose life was dedicated to the service of the Nupe people.

“Galadima Raba Nupe was a bridge builder who worked tirelessly to promote peace and unity in Kin Nupe, his demise is a huge loss to all of us,” he stated.

The Etsu Nupe prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus, and give his immediate family, associates and the entire Nupe Emirate the fortitude to bear the great loss.