Emir of Kaura Namoda in Zamfara state, Ahmad Muhammad Asha, also known as Sarkin Kiyawan Kaura Namoda is dead.

According to reports, he passed on in the early hours of Sunday, May 3, at the age of 71.

Daily Trust reports that his younger brother, Abdulkarim Ahmad Asha, the Dan Jekan Kaura Namoda, said the emir had battled diabetes and hypertension for a long time.

“He spent like four days in his palace responding to treatment when the illnesses struck again. Later he was taken to Yariman Bakura Specialists Hospital where he died after three days of admission,” he said.

A family source however disclosed that the traditional ruler died on Sunday morning while they were still awaiting the results of coronavirus test carried out on him.

“He is survived by three wives and 11 children among his children is Sanusi Muhammad Asha of the Nigerian Army currently serving in Maiduguri, Borno state.

“Preparation for his funeral rite are underway and he will be buried in his home town of Kaura Namoda according to Islamic rite,” Abdulkarim added.

The deceased was appointed as emir in 2004. Before his enthronement, he worked as director of finance and treasurer in many local government areas of the state including Kaura Namoda, Gusau and Maru.