Chief of Kagoro, Gwamna Awan, is dead

From MOHAMMED MUNIRAT NASIR, Kaduna
THE paramount ruler of Kagoro chiefdom in Kaduna State who is believed to be one of the longest serving traditional rulers in Africa, Malam Gwamna Awan died in the early hours of Tuesday, September 30 after a protracted illness.
The late traditional ruler otherwise known as Oegwam Oegworok, reigned for 63 years having been enthroned in 1945.
Born in 1918, the late Chief of Kagoro started his education at a mission school, and later attended the Toro Teachers Training College between 1933 and 1935.
Prior to succeeding his late father as the traditional ruler of Kagoro, Malam Awan had taught as classroom teacher for many years, and also held various positions at the Local Authority.
He was also a member of the old Northern Nigeria House of Chiefs and the Committee for Appointment and Deposition of Chiefs.
Late Awan was a recipient of the glorious Member of the British Empire (MBE) and Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
Announcing the passing away of the monarch, Kaduna State Governor, Arch. Mohammed Namadi Sambo described the death as a loss not only to Kagoro and Kaduna State, but also the entire country.
A statement signed by the Special Adviser, Media and Public Affairs to the governor, Umar Sani said the death of Malam Awan was tragic.
“With heavy heart, total submission to the will of Almighty God and deep sense of loss, I regret to announce the passing away to glory of one of the oldest monarchs in Africa and Chief of Kagoro, Malam Gwamna Awan, whose sad event occurred in the early hours of September 30 at ECWA Evangelical Hospital Jos, Plateau State,” the statement said.