Bida, NIGERIA — The Bida Emirate is in mourning following the death of Alhaji Mahmud Abubakar, the Sonfada Etsu Nupe. His passing was officially confirmed on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has expressed his deep condolences to the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH Yahaya Abubakar. Okay News reports that the Governor described the late Sonfada’s death as a “colossal loss” to the Nupe Kingdom and the entire state.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, Governor Bago praised the late Abubakar for his significant contributions to the development of the Bida Emirate. The Governor urged the family to find strength in their faith and to emulate the deceased’s legacy of selfless service to humanity.
The late Sonfada Etsu Nupe was a highly respected traditional titleholder within the Nupe traditional hierarchy, known for his role in maintaining the cultural heritage of the KinNupe. Traditional rites and prayers for the repose of his soul are expected to take place in Bida, according to Islamic traditions.
Governor Bago extended his sympathies to the Bida Emirate Council and the immediate family, praying that Allah grants the departed soul Aljannatul Firdaus.
This loss comes at a time when the Niger State government is actively working with traditional institutions to foster peace and community development across the state’s various emirates.
