‘We see your people as our people:’ What Emir of Zazzau told Soun during visit to Zaria

‘We see your people as our people:’ What Emir of Zazzau told Soun during visit to Zaria

Khalid ABRAHAM

The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege lll, Tuesday paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, in Zaria, Kaduna state.

It was a visit of historical importance as it brought to light the deep connection between the two historical cities and how the people of Zaria, under whose Emirate the city of Kaduna, capital of Kaduna state, falls, perceive the numerous Ogbomoso sons and daughters in the city.

Soun who also recently made a courtesy call on the Emir of Gombe during his visit to indigenes of Ogbomoso resident in Gombe state revealed in a Facebook post his latest rendezvous with a foremost traditional ruler in the north.

Oba Olaoye described the meeting as epoch-making and a further affirmation of the long-standing relationship between Ogbomoso and Zaria, noting that the two communities have shared over a century of history and mutual respect.

“Today, I had the distinct honour of visiting His Royal Highness, Alhaji Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, the Emir of Zazzau, in Zaria — one of the most historically significant emirates in Northern Nigeria,” he wrote.

“This visit was not only a privilege but also a reaffirmation of the longstanding bond between Ogbomoso and Zaria, a relationship that has flourished for over a century.

“The warmth of my reception and the hospitality extended to me were truly remarkable. I was not merely welcomed as a guest but embraced as family.”

He added that the royal visit further underscored the deep connection between the two communities, particularly the Ogbomoso indigenes who have made Zaria their home, with the Emir himself expressing his gratitude for their hard work and integrity.

Olaoye continued, “The Emir’s gracious words underscored the depth of our shared history and the mutual respect that has defined our relationship over the years.

“During this visit, I had the opportunity to engage with the sons and daughters of Ogbomoso who have made Zaria their home.

“Their remarkable contributions to education, business, governance, and community development have left a lasting impact. The Emir himself expressed profound appreciation for their integrity, hard work, and dedication to the progress of Zaria.”

Responding, the Emir of Zazzau was quoted as saying, “Ogbomoso people have been here for over 100 years. They are not just visitors; they are an integral part of Zaria. They belong to every committee and play vital roles in our community. We see them as our own, and we are grateful for their positive impact.”

Olaoye noted that the historic visit marks the “beginning of a renewed and strengthened alliance between Ogbomoso and Zaria.”

“I look forward to fostering deeper collaboration, unity, and development that will further solidify our shared heritage and aspirations,” he concluded.