By Umar Faruk
Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria, April 14, 2026(Series News Online)- Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State on Tuesday received Vice President Kashim Shettima, who led a federal delegation to condole with the state over the death of the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Usman Zuru, the killing of 11 soldiers, and recent attacks in Shanga Local Government Area.
Receiving the delegation in Birnin Kebbi, Governor Idris described the visit as a “powerful symbol of compassion, solidarity, and national unity in a time of mourning.”
“We are deeply touched by this visit,” the Governor said. “It is a clear demonstration that the President stands with us and shares in our sorrow.”
Governor Idris disclosed that 11 persons, including security personnel, lost their lives in an ambush while responding to a distress call in Shanga LGA. He commended “the bravery and swift response of security agencies in confronting threats across the state.”
Speaking on the death of the Speaker, the Governor said the state government made every effort to ensure he received the best medical care. “We ultimately bowed to the will of Almighty Allah,” he said.
The Governor announced relief measures for victims and families of the deceased. “The state government has 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,” he said.
Vice President Shettima, who spoke on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, described the Speaker’s death as “a painful and irreplaceable loss not only to Kebbi State but to Nigeria’s democratic institution.”
“I would have wished to be here under happier circumstances,” Shettima said in a sombre tone, “but Kebbi is close to my heart, and I share in your grief as a brother and friend.”
The Vice President lamented the attacks in Shanga LGA, where communities such as Gebe, Kalkami, Tunga-Remi, and Kawai were destroyed. He noted that families were 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.”
Shettima said President Tinubu had directed him and the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, to ensure immediate intervention for affected communities. “The Federal Government stands firmly with the people of Kebbi in this moment of grief,” he said.
He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting security forces. “The Federal Government remains fully committed to strengthening and supporting security forces in their ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability across the state,” he stated.
The Vice President commended Governor Idris for his leadership. He noted “significant strides in infrastructure development, sustained investment in education, and an inclusive style of governance that has fostered unity and belonging among the people.”
Shettima 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.”
Speaking on behalf of the family of the late Speaker, the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Sanusi Mikailu, praised the Governor’s support to grieving families and affected communities. He described the Governor’s leadership as “compassionate and responsive in times of distress.”
The late Speaker, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Usman Zuru, also known as Lifiddan Zuru, died on Monday, April 6, 2026, at a hospital in Cairo, Egypt, after a prolonged illness.
The visit ended with prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed, for strength and healing for those left behind, and for unity and peace in Nigeria.
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