His Royal Highness the Emir of Ilorin, Mai-Martaba Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers' Council, has appointed Mallam Suleiman Auta as the new Sarkin Zuru of Kwara State.

The Emir also directed the former community leader, Mallam Abdullahi Abubakar, to cease presenting himself as the Sarkin Zuru. The decision was announced in a statement issued on Monday by the Emir's Spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona.

The appointment of Mallam Auta followed a unanimous request from Zuru community members across the state for a new leader, which was formally presented to the Emir.

The statement reads: "The only recognised Sarkin Zuru of Kwara State is Mallam Suleiman Auta. The general public should take note and desist from recognizing Abdullahi Abubakar henceforth.

"His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR wishes the new Sarkin Zuru Allah's guidance and protection in his new status and urged the entire members of Zuru community to continue to support him in tbe discharge of his duties.