Sarkin Gabas of Gwandu, Zayyanu, Dies at 61 - Gov. Idris Mourns

Sarkin Gabas of Gwandu, Zayyanu, Dies at 61 - Gov. Idris Mourns

By Umar Faruk

Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has mourned the death of the District Head of Gwandu, Sarkin Gabas na Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammad Zayyanu Haruna Rasheed.

Alhaji Rasheed died on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, after a prolonged illness. He was 61 years old.
In a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yahaya Sarki, Governor Idris described the passing of the monarch as a monumental loss to Gwandu Emirate and Kebbi State in general.

The Governor said the late traditional ruler dedicated his life to the service of his people and the promotion of peace, unity and harmony in his domain. “The news of the demise of Alhaji Muhammad Zayyanu Haruna Rasheed, Sarkin Gabas na Gwandu, is deeply painful and saddening,” Governor Idris said.

“He was a man of peace, humility and unwavering faith in Allah. His wise counsel, calm disposition and commitment to peaceful coexistence and unity among his people will be greatly missed. His death has created a painful vacuum that will be difficult to fill,” he added.

Governor Idris also described the deceased as a humble, peaceful and God-fearing leader whose exemplary character earned him widespread respect. “His contributions to the development of Gwandu and his dedication to the dignity and responsibilities of the traditional institution will remain indelible,” the Governor said.

“He will be remembered as a respected traditional leader who served his people with wisdom, humility and a deep sense of responsibility,” he further stated.

The Governor extended his condolences to the Emir of Gwandu, the immediate family of the deceased, and the entire people of Gwandu Emirate. He prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the late Sarkin Gabas, reward his good deeds with Aljannatul Firdaus, and grant his family and the Emirate the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

The late Alhaji Muhammad Zayyanu Haruna Rasheed is survived by one wife and four children. He has been buried in Gwandu town according to Islamic rites, shortly after a funeral prayer held at the palace of the Emir of Gwandu in Birnin Kebbi.