The election of the new Emir of Zazzau was held in Kaduna on Thursday, this is coming after the former Emir, Shehu Idris, passed away last Sunday.
The new Emir is expected to emerge from one of the three ruling houses of the emirate.
The incoming King will have to be a descendant of Musa (the first Emir of the Mallawa clan); or the descendant of Yamusa (the first Emir of the Bare-bari clan); or the descendant of Abdulkarimu (the first Emir of the Katsinawa clan).
All candidates were expected to express their interests after the third day prayers for the late Emir.
Ahead of the process, seven princes declared their intention to contest.
Two of the candidates are from the Bare-Bari clan, and the Mallawa clan.
The five others are from the Katsianwa clan – Iya, Turaki, Uban Gari, Dan Galadima, and Sarkin Kudu.
Five kingmakers of Zazzau Emirate Council voted.
They are Wazirin Zazzau – Ibrahim Aminu; Makama Karami – Muhammad Abbas; Fagachin Zazzau – Umar Muhammad; Limamin Juma’a – Dalhatu Kasim and Limamin Kona – Muhammad Aliyu.
The election had in attendance Secretary to the State Government, the Head of Service, the Commissioner of Police, among others.
Further information revealed that at least, seven criteria were adopted for voting.
These include Minimum qualification (BSc or HND) – 15%; Experience as a District Head – 20%; Experience in Public Service – 10%; No proven adverse report – 10%; Relationship with the public – 15%; National Award – 5% and Physical fitness – 10%.
Three of the kingmakers reportedly voted for Bashir Aminu – Iyan Zazzau.
The chartered accountant and businessman, regarded as the most popular candidate, has served the longest as a titleholder and District Head in the emirate
Aminu Idris – Turakin Zazzau, and Muhammadu Munir Ja’afaru – the Yeriman Zazzau, reportedly got one vote each.
Three sons of the late Emir who expressed interest are Bashir Shehu Idris – Uban Gari; Sambo Shehu Idris – Sarkin Kudu; and Aimu Umaru Idris – Dan Galadima.
The report of the election has been submitted by the kingmakers to the state government and are expected to meet Governor Nasir El-Rufai Friday afternoon.
The names sent for “consideration and further necessary action” are Bashir Aminu, Aminu Idris and Munir Ja’afaru.
The governor is expected to make an announcement on the process.
