Sad news enveloped Yobe State as the Emir of Tikau, Alhaji Muhammadu Abubakar Ibn-Grema, breathed his last.

The demise of the revered emir was confirmed by his younger brother, Alhaji Abubakar Talba, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Damaturu on Saturday.

Talba, a prince of the Tikau Emirate Council, disclosed that Ibn-Grema passed away in Potiskum around 4 pm on Friday. “Yes, I can confirm to you that the Emir died after a brief illness. He was over 70 years at the time of his death,” he said solemnly.

The prince further stated that the deceased, a first-class chief, would be laid to rest by 4 pm on Saturday in accordance with Islamic rites.

The late Ibn-Grema, whose palace graced the Nangere Local Government Area, held a distinguished position as the paramount ruler of the Karekare people.

His ascension to the throne as Emir occurred on July 25, 2001, and he served his people diligently for 23 years until his passing.

NAN