Dr. Issifi Djibe, who led a medical institution in Rendsburg for over 20 years, unexpectedly became the emir of Kokoru in Niger, much to the surprise of many. This was reported by the Kazinform agency, citing BILD.
After retiring, Djibe lived with his wife in Schleswig-Holstein, not intending to return to his home country, especially in the role of a ruler. However, Niger, located in West Africa, is one of the poorest countries in the world.
Djibe received his medical education in Germany thanks to a scholarship he obtained back in 1970. Additionally, he belongs to an aristocratic family and is considered a possible successor to the late monarch who passed away in 2023. According to him, his family would not approve of his refusal of the elections or the title.
Although power in Niger is concentrated in the capital, Niamey, traditional power structures still exist. In Kokoru, where about 150,000 people live, the king is elected by a council of village chiefs.
More than ten candidates participated in the elections, and some even threatened Djibe, according to German media. Nevertheless, he won, receiving 25 out of 51 votes, and became the emir of Kokoru for life.
Djibe himself emphasizes that the situation in the country remains tense, and the threat from jihadists requires him to move only with security escorts.
He sees his mission as a mediator between the local population and the central government. The emir has the right to collect taxes and make judicial decisions. Furthermore, he plans to improve the region's infrastructure so that resources are used more efficiently for the benefit of the population.
Dr. Djibe does not intend to completely give up his life in Germany: he plans to return to Schleswig-Holstein periodically, and in his absence, his brother will perform his duties in Niger.
