Tragedy struck in Kaduna State on Thursday, as the Sarkin Yakin Zazzau, Rilwan Pate, slumped and died while attending an occasion alongside the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli.

An eyewitness told press that Pate, who was also a Council Member of the Emirate and Councillor in charge of Health Related Matters, suddenly slumped during the event and was rushed to the Gambo Sawaba General Hospital, Kofar Gayan Zaria, where he was confirmed dead.

The Zazzau Emirate Council confirmed the incident in a statement issued by the Media and Publicity officer of the Zazzau, Abdullahi Kwarbai, on Thursday.

Kwarbai expressed great sadness over the passing of Alhaji Rilwanu Yahaya Pate.

“It is with great sadness that the Zazzau Emirate Council announces the passing of Sarkin Yakin Zazzau Alhaji Rilwanu Yahaya Pate, a Council Member of the Emirate,” the statement said.

Bamalli also condoled with the family of the deceased, describing his death as “the will of Allah.”

“Death is inevitable and can come whenever Allah destined,” he added.

The Emir described the late Sarkin Yakin Zazzau as hardworking, dedicated and very religious, whose vacuum will not easily be replaced.

The remains of the late Sarkin Yakin Zazzau were buried at Rimin Dodo later in the evening on Thursday, in accordance with Islamic rites.