By Ishaya Ibrahim, News Editor
President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday commiserated with the families of late Dr. Michael Iheonukara Okpara, Premier of Eastern Nigeria during the First Republic, and Major General Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi-Ironsi, the country’s first military Head of State, over the death of their matriarchs.
Lady Adanma Okpara, wife of Dr. Okpara died on Sunday in Umuahia aged 97 years. Barely 24 hours later, Chief Mrs. Victoria Aguiyi-Ironsi, Nigeria’s second First Lady, passed on in Umuahia in the early hours of Monday, also aged 97.
Both women and their late husbands hailed from Abia State.
On the death of Lady Adanma Okpara, a statement by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, said Buhari joins the government and people of Abia State and all Nigerians in mourning the passing of an enterprising and disciplined mother, who was a worthy example of humility and hardwork to her children and the many women she mentored in her community.
“As a recipient of several awards and honours from faith-based and humanitarian organisations, President Buhari affirms that the late wife of the very formidable figure in the First Republic and the Eastern Nigeria, led by example even after leaving public office.
“The President’s prayers and thoughts are with the family members, friends and members of the Knight of John Wesley (KJW) in the Methodist Church Nigeria, who will greatly miss her warmth, grace and depth of wisdom.
“President Buhari prays God Almighty to grant the soul of the departed eternal rest.”
In the same vein, Adesina’s statement said, “President Muhammadu Buhari extends deepest condolences to the Aguiyi-Ironsi family, and government and people of Abia State on the passing of Chief Mrs. Victoria Aguiyi-Ironsi, wife of the first military Head of State, Major General Johnson Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi.
“The President affirms that Lady Victoria’s incredible strength and exceptional courage during one of the darkest moments in our nation’s history pedestals her as a mother of the nation, God-fearing and a foremost woman of valour.
“The President notes that the former First Lady will be remembered for laying a solid foundation for women’s leadership role in the seat of power and as a founding member of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association; she passionately championed the welfare and wellbeing of families of military officers.
“The President recognises that 55 years after the death of General J.T. Aguiyi-Ironsi, Lady Victoria never stopped working for the greater good of Nigeria, and for peace, stability, healing and reconciliation in the land.
“The President sincerely hopes that Lady Victoria’s labours for the country will not be in vain, and joins all Nigerians in praying for the repose of the soul of the departed and comfort for those who mourn.”