It was a black Wednesday for Nigeria's political arena ,recording the death of both Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo and former Speaker of House of Representatives, Right Honourable Ghali Umar Na'Abba from Kano State
Governor Dapo Abiodun.of Ogun State in his separate reactions to the two sad incidents, described the death of Akeredolu at 67 ,as tragic and that of former Speaker at 65 as a great loss, not only to his family and Kano State, but to Nigeria.
Akeredolu succumbed to leukaemia in Lagos on Wednesday.
In his condolence message to the acting Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the family of the deceased and Ondo people, Prince Abiodun described Akeredolu, who until his death was the chairman of the South West Governors Forum, as a a dogged fighter throughout his life time.
According to him, Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), stood for equity and fairness in the run up to the 2023 presidential election when he was the chairman of the Southern Governors' Forum.
Prince Abiodun said Akeredolu was a visionary leader with an unwavering dedication to his people and social justice.
Abiodun said: "Akeredolu made an indelible mark on Nigerian politics. From his tenure as the chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association to his role as the chairman of the South West Governors Forum, he continuously championed the cause of justice and the upliftment of his people.
"Known for his tireless efforts to improve the lives of Ondo citizens, Akeredolu spearheaded major initiatives that brought about positive change. Under his leadership, the state witnessed significant advancements in healthcare, infrastructure, and education. His commitment to sustainable development earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and citizens alike.
"As the nation mourns the loss of a formidable leader, Rotimi Akeredolu's memory will continue to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come. His legacy of compassion, justice, and progress will endure, forever reminding Nigerians of the transformative power of dedicated leadership.
"In this time of immense grief, the people of Ondo State must unite, draw strength from their cherished memories of their late governor and resolve to honour his legacy by building upon the foundations he laid, ensuring that his vision for a better and brighter future for Ondo State lives on."
Also Governor Abiodun in another condolence on the death of former Speaker of House of Representatives, acknowledged the contributions made by Hon. Na'Abba during the period of his speakership when Nigeria was just coming out of a long military dictatorship.
The governor noted that the seed planted by the late Na'Abba and his colleague lawmakers in the National Assembly has germinated to full-blown democratic dispensation, with Nigeria becoming a reference point in Africa.
As a respected leader and statesman, he played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria's democracy and tirelessly advocated for the welfare of his constituents.
"It is with great sadness that we have learned about the passing of a remarkable statesman and a true servant of the people.
"Rt. Hon. Na’Abba was not just a former speaker of the House of Representatives; he was a visionary leader who dedicated his life to public service. His unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and his tireless efforts towards nation-building have left an indelible mark on our great nation.
"Throughout his political career, Hon. Na’Abba distinguished himself as a man of integrity, wisdom, and compassion. His leadership qualities were evident in the way he tirelessly advocated for the rights and welfare of the Nigerian people. Under his able guidance, significant strides were made towards strengthening our democracy and promoting good governance.
"Moreover, he was a staunch advocate for the people of Kano State. His dedication to their well-being was unparalleled, and his love and passion for his home state will forever be remembered.
"On behalf of the government and the good people of Ogun State, I extend our deepest sympathies to the people of Kano State and the Na’Abba family. We share in your grief as we bid farewell to a remarkable leader.
"As we mourn the loss of a great statesman, let us also celebrate his life and legacy. May his remarkable achievements and selfless dedication to the Nigerian people serve as an inspiration to all.
"Let us honour his memory by continuing his work and striving for a Nigeria that he would be proud of," Abiodun said.
Na'Abba was elected into the House of Representatives in 1999 and replaced Salisu Buhari, also from Kano State as Speaker after a certificate scandal.
No comments:
Post a Comment