The Emir of Gumel in Jigawa State, Alhaji Ahmed Muhammad Sani II, has died at the age of 83.

Palace sources said the revered traditional ruler died on Thursday in Cairo, Egypt, where he had been receiving medical treatment.

Born on December 12, 1942, Sani II was the 16th Emir of Gumel and one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Northern Nigeria.

He ascended the throne on December 16, 1980, following the death of his father. He formally received his staff of office in May 1981.

The late emir spent more than 45 years on the throne, becoming a prominent figure in the traditional institution in Northern Nigeria.

His death is expected to be widely mourned across Jigawa State and beyond, given his long reign and standing within the traditional leadership of the region.