Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal on July 28, 2025, appointed Alhaji Muhammadu Bello Tambari as the new Emir of Gusau, filling a vacancy left by the death of Alhaji Ibrahim Bello on July 24, 2025.
The announcement, made during a state executive council meeting, followed a selection process involving the Gusau Emirate Council, which nominated Tambari, a 58-year-old Islamic scholar and businessman, from three candidates. Tambari’s appointment, effective immediately, was ratified under Section 5 of the Zamfara State Emirate Council Law, with a turbaning ceremony scheduled for August 2.
Tambari, known for mediating community disputes and managing a successful trading enterprise, succeeds a 15-year reign marked by peace efforts amid banditry. Governor Lawal praised his nominee’s leadership potential, allocating ₦50 million for palace renovations and security upgrades.
However, some traditionalists question the process’s transparency, citing the swift decision, while security experts from the International Crisis Group note the new emir’s challenge in addressing the state’s 120 bandit-related deaths in June. The narrative of continuity is hopeful, but his tenure’s success will depend on navigating insecurity.