The 85-year-old business tycoon reportedly died in the governor's hometown of Ilesha early on Tuesday.

The governor's Twitter handle (@raufaregbesola) appeared to confirm the story when it tweeted only minutes ago, "Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un."

This Arabic statement translates to "From Allah we came, to Him we shall return."

The governor is currently in Birnin-Kebbi, Kebbi state for the Federal Government-Progressive Governors Forum Parley on Policy Synergy to ensure Development.

Alhaja Saratu will be buried later in the day according to Islamic rites.