Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has expressed sorrow over the death of the Executive Chairman of Zaki Local Government Area, Malam Masud Umar, who reportedly died in a road accident at Konkiyal Village in Darazo Local Government Area.

Umar was said to have been returning to Zaki LGA after attending an Allied People’s Movement (APM) stakeholders’ meeting convened on Sunday when the accident occurred.

In a condolence message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, the governor described the deceased as a dedicated public servant, committed grassroots politician and compassionate leader whose contributions to public service and community development would remain memorable.

Mohammed recalled that before his election as Zaki LGA chairman, Umar served as Director-General of the Bauchi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), where he demonstrated commitment to emergency response, disaster management and humanitarian interventions across the state.

The governor said Umar’s tenure at SEMA was marked by efforts to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable residents and provide timely assistance to communities affected by emergencies and other humanitarian challenges.

“As Executive Chairman of Zaki Local Government Area, he continued to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to grassroots development, particularly through initiatives aimed at empowering youths and women, improving livelihoods and promoting inclusive development within his local government,” he said.

Mohammed noted that although Umar’s tenure as council chairman was relatively brief, his passion for public service, accessibility and commitment to the welfare of his constituents distinguished his leadership.

He described the death as a devastating loss to the deceased’s immediate family, the people of Zaki LGA and Bauchi State at large, particularly the public service and local government administration.

The governor prayed for the peaceful repose of Umar’s soul and urged his family, political associates, friends and the people of Zaki LGA to draw strength and comfort from Almighty Allah.

“May the Almighty Allah grant his soul eternal rest and give all those he left behind the fortitude to bear this great loss,” he prayed.