Nigeria’s story is shaped by defining moments that alter its trajectory. As Martin Luther King Jr. noted, “We are not makers of history. We are made by history.”
In line with our commitment to education and enlightenment, WITHIN NIGERIA highlights one notable event from June 6 in Nigeria’s history.
Emir Ado Abdullahi Bayero Dies at 84
On June 6, 2014, Alhaji Ado Abdullahi Bayero, the Emir of Kano, died at age 84 in Gidan Rumfa Palace after a protracted illness.
Palace sources confirmed the Emir passed peacefully around 8:30 a.m., surrounded by family members and palace officials.
The revered monarch had battled frail health for months and was flown to London for treatment earlier that year.
As news spread, thousands of mourners filled Kano’s streets. Markets and schools shut down immediately in tribute.
The Janaza prayer was led by the Chief Imam of Kano, Prof. Sani Zahraddeen, at the Emir’s Palace mosque at 4 p.m. He was interred at the Gidan Sarki Nassarawa royal cemetery.
Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso described the late Emir as “a symbol of unity, peace and progress,” adding: “Kano has lost a father. Nigeria has lost a bridge-builder.”
President Goodluck Jonathan, in a condolence message, said Emir Bayero “served his people and nation with uncommon dedication” and was “a tireless advocate for peaceful coexistence.”
Turbaned on October 22, 1963, Ado Bayero was the longest-serving Emir of Kano in modern times. During his 53-year reign, Kano transformed into northern Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre.
Before ascending the throne, he served as a police officer and later as Nigeria’s ambassador to Senegal. In January 2013, he survived a Boko Haram attack on his convoy that claimed the lives of his driver and two guards.
He was survived by 4 wives, 11 sons, and 14 daughters.
