By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
The Etsu Bassa-Nge, Brigadier General (Dr) Abu Ali (Rtd.), is dead.
The revered traditional ruler passed away today in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital.
Palace sources confirmed that the monarch died at a hospital in Lokoja after a brief illness.
His body has since been transported to Gboloko in Bassa Local Government Area of Kogi State for immediate burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
The news of his death has plunged the Bassa-Nge kingdom into deep mourning, with residents describing the incident as a huge loss to the community.
Condolence messages have begun to pour in from traditional institutions, political leaders, and notable figures across Kogi State and beyond.
Late Brigadier General (Dr) Abu Ali (Rtd.) was a respected military officer and statesman who served Nigeria diligently.
He was a former Military Administrator of Bauchi State, where he earned recognition for exemplary leadership and dedication to public service.
Beyond his military achievements, the late Etsu was known for championing peace, community development, cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and unity among his people.
His reign brought stability and progress to the Bassa-Nge kingdom.
Community leaders say his death has created a huge vacuum that will be difficult to fill, describing him as a father figure whose wisdom and humility remained unmatched.
Funeral activities are ongoing in Gboloko, while the palace is expected to release further details on burial arrangements and succession plans.
