Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has expressed sadness at the death of the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero describing him as an epitome of peace and national unity.

In a statement made available to Blank NEWS Online by Felix Ofou, his Press Secretary, the Governor noted the bold sacrifices and courage exhibited by the late monarch to maintain relative peace in Kano even in the face of threats by insurgents and at great risk to his life.

“Even at great risk to his life and threat by insurgents, the late Royal Majesty stood defiantly against religious extremism and helped to maintain peace in Kano which is the commercial nerve centre of Northern Nigeria.

“Our revered royal father was not cowed; neither did he retreat when his convoy was shot at. He also intervened where necessary to ensure that peace and the unity of the country was not in any way compromised,” he said.

Uduaghan recalled with nostalgia and fond memories how the late Emir received him and the entourage from Delta State in the ancient city of Kano in 2007, noting that the encounter and warm reception accorded him would remain indelible in his mind.

“Because of his personal commitment to peace and unity of Nigeria, the late Alhaji Ado Bayero welcomed us to the ancient city of Kano. He related to me like a son and I accepted him more like a father,” he added‎.

Governor Uduaghan particularly noted the late monarch’s support for President Goodluck Jonathan and efforts to combat the scourge of Boko Haram and other terrorist activities in the country.

“I am sure President Goodluck Jonathan will greatly miss the wise counsel and intervention of the late Emir. He was a pillar of support to the Federal Government as well as other forms of lawful authority in the country, “he enthused.

Uduaghan therefore expressed condolences to the government and people of Kano State, the Ado Bayero family, President Jonathan and Nigerians at large and prayed God to grant all the fortitude to bear the loss.

Recall that the Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, who became Emir in 1963, died in the morning hours of Friday, June 06, 2014 at the age of 84.