By Onyewuchi Ojinnaka
President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria has expressed sadness over the death of three prominent Nigerians, who died over the weekend.
He commiserated with the families of the deceased, saying that he was indeed saddened by the sudden departure of their loved ones.
The very first sad news that touched President Bihari was the death of Hajiya Fatima (Fanta) Garba Mohammed, the immediate younger sister of late Head of State, General Sani Abacha, and mother of Senator Basheer Mohammed (Lado).
In his condolence message to the family, Buhari noted that Hajiya Fanta, who lived up to the age of 75, devoted her time on earth in caring for the less-privileged and godly upbringing of her children.
He prayed that Allah would console all those who mourn her death and grant Hajiya Fanta Aljannatul Firdaus.
On the same note, the death of former Minister of Commerce and Industry, Senator Jubril Martins-Kuye was announced by his family.
The 78-year-old former minister died at 10:05am on Sunday due to old age-related illness in his residence at Victoria Garden City, Lagos.
Also reacting to Senator Martins-Kuye’s death, President Buhari commiserated with the Ago Iwoye community, government and people of Ogun State.
He noted that Martins-Kuye brought his many years banking experience to bear when he served in government, expressing that the deceased will be sorely missed for his insight on issues of development, particularly in tailoring budgets that reflect the needs of the people.
President Buhari received another sad information about the demise of former Nigerian Ambassador to Ireland, Bolere Ketebu, who also passed on at the weekend.
In a statement on Sunday, President Buhari condoled with the Ketebu family, Bayelsa government, as well as friends and colleagues.
He prayed that God would grant eternal rest to the soul of the departed medical doctor/diplomat, and comfort all who mourn her.
“As the new week begins today, it is my prayer that these deaths will cease and Nigeria will be free from negative news”, the statement reads.