The Sarkin Malaman of Sokoto state, Sheikh Buhari Sirdawa is dead.
He died on Friday evening at Saraki Hospital after a brief illness.
The deceased was appointed Sarkin Malamai 45 years ago by Sultan Abubakar III. Aged 95, and survived by 34 children.
Reacting to the death, President Muhammadu Buhari, in a condolence message signed by Garba Shehu and made available on Saturday, said the death of, Alhaji Buhari Siriddawa, “is not only a loss to the people of Sokoto State, but also the entire country because of his indefatigable commitment to peace during his eventful life on earth.”
President said, “I received the news of Siriddawa’s demise with great shock, and I will say without any fear of contradiction that he was one of the greatest religious leaders of our recent history or time.”
According to President Buhari, “the late Siriddawa had committed himself to the promotion of peace, unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence in the country.”
Describing him as a remarkable leader, the President added that “the late Sarkin Malaman Sokoto had built an enviable legacy worthy of emulation.”
“May the Almighty Allah forgive his soul and reward his noble deeds with paradise, and grant his family the fortitude to bear this great loss,” President Buhari said further, while extending his condolences to the Sokoto Emirate Council in particular, and the government and people of Sokoto State in general.”
