By Haruna Usman, Birnin Kebbi
Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, on Tuesday paid a condolence visit to Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, following the death of the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Muhammad Usman Zuru, and other losses recorded across the state.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, the Vice President conveyed heartfelt and profound condolences on the passing of the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Muhammad Usman Zuru, describing his death as a painful and irreplaceable loss not only to Kebbi State but to the Nigeria’s democratic institution.
With visible emotion, Vice President Shettima also lamented the devastating incidents in Shanga Local Government Area, where communities such as Gebe, Kalkami, Tunga-Remi, and Kawai suffered destruction, leaving families displaced and livelihoods shattered.
He also expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of 11 gallant soldiers in Boni, Masa, who paid the ultimate price while defending their homeland, assuring that their sacrifice would forever be honoured and never forgotten.
The Vice President stated that President Tinubu had directed him, alongside the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar, to ensure immediate and adequate intervention for affected communities. He stressed that the Federal Government stands firmly with the people of Kebbi in this moment of grief.
He further reassured that the Federal Government remains fully committed to strengthening and supporting security forces in their ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability across the state.
Despite the prevailing sorrow, Vice President Shettima took a moment to commend Governor Nasir Idris for his remarkable leadership, noting significant strides in infrastructure development, sustained investment in education, and an inclusive style of governance that has fostered unity and belonging among the people.
“I would have wished to be here under happier circumstances,” the Vice President said in a sombre tone, “but Kebbi is close to my heart, and I share in your grief as a brother and friend.”
He also extended condolences to the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning over the passing of his sister, underscoring the weight of collective grief being felt across the nation.
In his response, Governor Nasir Idris expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for the visit, describing it as a powerful symbol of compassion, solidarity, and national unity in a time of mourning.
“We are deeply touched by this visit. It is a clear demonstration that the President stands with us and shares in our sorrow,” the Governor said.
Idris revealed that about 11 persons, including security personnel, lost their lives in an ambush while responding to a distress call in Shanga Local Government Area.
He commended the bravery and swift response of security agencies in confronting threats across the state.
Reflecting on the painful loss of the Speaker, the Governor noted that the state government made every possible effort to ensure he received the best medical care, but ultimately bowed to the will of Almighty Allah.
He further disclosed that the state government had approved the sum of N100 million to support victims displaced by banditry, as well as N60 million to the families of fallen security personnel, as part of efforts to cushion the impact of the tragedies.
Also speaking onbehalf of the family of the late Speaker, the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Sanusi Mikailu, praised the Governor’s unwavering support to grieving families and affected communities, describing his leadership as compassionate and responsive in times of distress.
It would be recalled that the late Speaker, Hon. Muhammad Usman Zuru (Lifiddan Zuru), passed away on Monday, 6th April, 2026, at a hospital in Cairo, Egypt, after a prolonged illness.
The visit ended with prayers offered for the repose of the souls of the departed and for strength and healing for those left behind as well as for unity and peace in Nigeria.