Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero dies aged 83

The emir of Kano, one of Nigeria's most revered Muslim leaders, has died.

Bayero, a former Ambassador to Senegal has been the Emir since 1963. He ascended the throne when Muhammadu Sanusi, his half brother was dethroned and Inuwa who succeeded him reigned for only three months.

Ado Bayero’s reign remains one of the longest in the history of the Kano Emirate.

Last year, he survived an attack on his convoy by suspected Islamist militants of the Boko Haram group.

The emir had recently returned home from London where he had been receiving treatment.

Before he ascended to the throne, he worked as a banker, police officer, parliamentarian and diplomat; he was also a successful businessman.

He was 83 years old.