Borno Mourns Loss of Waziri, Gov. Zulum Leads Condolences

From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu

Borno State was plunged into mourning on Saturday with the passing of the Waziri of Borno, Yerima Mustapha Muktar.

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum led a government delegation to express condolences to the Shehu of Borno and offer prayers for the deceased.

Zulum, accompanied by Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, Minister of Agriculture Abubakar Kyari, and other dignitaries, joined family, religious leaders, and prominent figures in paying their respects at the funeral prayer held at the Shehu of Borno’s Palace.

Imam Idaini of Borno, Shettima Mamman Saleh, led the prayers for the late Waziri, who served as the prime minister of the Elkanemi dynasty and Chief Advisor to the Shehu. Muktar, 50, passed away after a protracted illness, leaving behind his mother, four wives, 19 children, and siblings.

Appointed in 2007 by the then Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Mustapha Umar El-Kanemi, Muktar played a significant role in the traditional governance of Borno State. Governor Zulum, in his eulogy, described him as “a wise councilor and loyal confidante” to the Shehu, whose loss would be deeply felt by the entire community.

“The death of the Waziri is a huge loss not only to the Shehu and his immediate family but to all the people of Borno. He was a respected leader who dedicated his life to serving his people and upholding the rich traditions of our Borno Emirate” Zulum said.

The funeral was attended by prominent figures including the Shehus of Dikwa, Bama, and the Emirs of Damaturu and Gazargamu, reflecting the widespread respect and esteem for the late Waziri.