Alhaji Umar Moriki, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State, was tragically killed by suspected gunmen, believed to be bandits, on Saturday morning. The fatal incident occurred along the Gusau–Tsafe highway, specifically near Fegi village in Tsafe Local Government Area, while Moriki was travelling from Gusau to Kaduna. The Zamfara APC chapter, led by Chairman Tukur Danfulani, promptly confirmed the devastating loss, conveying their profound sadness over the death of a dedicated party member and community leader at the age of 62.

According to statements released by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Idris (also referred to as Yusuf Gusau), Alhaji Moriki had attended a significant stakeholders’ meeting shortly before his demise. This meeting, and a reception held in his honour, was hosted by Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, who was visiting the state to engage with party members and associates. Moriki was reportedly returning to Kaduna from Gusau when the attack happened in the early hours of Saturday. Following the grim news, Minister Matawalle cancelled all scheduled engagements in his hometown of Maradun to attend the funeral prayer for the fallen party chieftain, which also took place on Saturday.

Alhaji Umar Moriki had a distinguished career in public service and politics within Zamfara State. His past roles included serving as the Vice Chairman of Zurmi Local Government Area, a Director-General of a state agency (notably in revenue generation), and later as a Special Adviser to the governor on Rural Electrification. A committed politician, he also aspired for the Zurmi/Shinkafi House of Representatives seat during the 2023 general elections, showcasing his long-standing dedication to the state's development and political landscape.

He is survived by three wives and numerous children. The APC eulogized the deceased as a loyal party member who committed his life to public service, emphasizing the significant void his passing leaves within the party and the wider community in Zamfara State. His funeral saw the attendance of many APC leaders, executives, members, and supporters who gathered in Gusau to pay their last respects.