The Executive Chairman of Zaki Local Government Area in Bauchi State, Mallam Mas’ud Umar, has tragically lost his life in a road accident on the Bauchi-Maiduguri Federal Highway. The incident occurred around 7:30 pm on Sunday near the Konkiyal axis in Darazo Local Government Area as he was returning home after attending a stakeholders’ meeting of the Allied People’s Movement (APM).

Umar's passing has sent shockwaves through the political and administrative circles of Bauchi State, particularly within Zaki Local Government Area. The meeting he attended was presided over by Senator Bala Mohammed, the Bauchi State Governor and National Leader of the APM.

In a statement released on Monday, Governor Mohammed expressed his deep sorrow over the loss, describing Umar as a dedicated public servant and a compassionate leader who was committed to grassroots politics. The governor highlighted Umar’s significant contributions to public service and community development, stating that his impact would be remembered for years to come.

Before his election as the Zaki council chairman, Umar served as the Director-General of the Bauchi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA). In this role, he was instrumental in disaster management and humanitarian efforts, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving the lives of the people in his community.

Governor Mohammed noted that despite his relatively short tenure as council chairman, Umar's passion for public service and his accessibility to constituents set him apart as a leader. The governor lamented that his death represents a significant loss not only to his family and the people of Zaki but also to the broader public service and local government administration in the state.

In his condolence message, the governor extended his sympathies to Umar's family, the residents of Zaki, the Katagum Emirate Council, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Bauchi State, and his political associates. He prayed for the deceased, asking Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal peace.

The funeral prayer for Mallam Mas’ud Umar is scheduled to take place at 2 pm on November 2, 2026, at the Palace of the District Head in Mur Mur, Zaki Local Government Area. His untimely death is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of loss on a community that he served with dedication.