Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Shehu Idris, spent moments at events to mark his 42nd year on the throne, begging the emirate and Nigerians to forgive his wrongs.
In an emotional speech during a prayer session to mark the anniversary, he said age was no longer on his side, calling it rare that a ruler should spend so long a time on the throne.
“When I assumed the mantle of leadership of this great emirate, I was only 39. Today, I am celebrating 42nd anniversary on the throne. This is a rare privilege. For this, I want to seek for your forgiveness for any wrong that I might have done to you,” said the Emir.
“I would like to also use this opportunity to appeal to Nigerians to continue to give peace a chance. Without peace, Nigeria cannot achieve its developmental goals.”
Kaduna state deputy governor, Yusuf Barnabas Bantex, who represented the governor, Nasir el-Rufa’i, urged the emir to write a memoir about his life, as there is a lot to learn.
“Less than 10 per cent of Kaduna State population were alive when you were turbaned as the Emir of Zazzau, therefore, your experience is highly needed. We are happy God has spared your life to contribute meaningfully to the development of our nation. We pray God will continue to give you long life, strength and wisdom to lead well. I would like to use this opportunity to assure that Zaria Water Project will soon be completed, being one of the major challenges of your people,” Bantex said.
