Buhari: Shagari’s Death, a Departure of Patriot with Life of Service, Humility

Buhari: Shagari’s Death, a Departure of Patriot with Life of Service, Humility
By Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari Friday night in Abuja  described the demise of the first executive President of Nigeria, Alhaji Usman Aliyu Shehu Shagari, as the departure of a  patriot whose life of service and humility was widely acknowledged.

 According to a statement by the president’s spokesman, Mr. Femi Adesina, the president said he received the news of Shagari’s transition with sadness.
He was quoted as saying, “On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Nigeria, it is with immense sadness that I received the news of the passing away of the First Executive President of Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Shagari which event happened   Friday in Abuja.”
Furthermore, Adesina said Buhari recalled part of the birthday message he (Buhari) sent to the deceased last February, quoting him as saying in the message, “we are enthralled and regaled with the many years of unequalled patriotism, sacrifices and contributions to national development. More specifically, we celebrate the role modelling qualities of integrity, diligence and humility that have been the hallmark of your visionary leadership.”
The statement also said the president expressed gratitude to God that Shagari attained a ripe age and led an exemplary life, which he urged Nigerians in all walks of life  to emulate.
The president was also quoted as saying, “Nigerians  held him in the highest esteem  even when he was out of office until his demise and will forever miss his wise counsels.”
The statement added that Buhari prayed the Almighty God to comfort the family of the ex-president and all who mourn him and grant the soul of the late nonagerian  eternal rest.

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