Fani-Kayode’s SA dies after 34 years of service, police invite hotel manager
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode today announced the death of Ndifreke Saviour Mark, his Special Assistant of more than three decades whom he said passed on after he slumped in a hotel in Abuja.
Fani-Kayode broke the news on X (Twitter) where he recounted that Mark left his residence early on Sunday morning on October 13 to attend Mass at the Catholic Church of Assumption, Asokoro, Abuja, before heading along with an unidentified individual to a hotel in the capital city where he died.
Mark, who served FFK for more than 34 years, checked into Mildy Lodge and Apartments in Garki, Abuja, where he spent some time with the individual.
“According to the police, he took a room at the hotel, spent time with an individual, and apparently slumped and died in that person’s presence,” Fani-Kayode disclosed.
He said Mark was taken to Asokoro District Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The individual who was with him at the time of his collapse has been taken into police custody and a full criminal investigation is underway.
Fani-Kayode expressed grief over the loss, describing Mark as a loyal and trusted aide who “was like a son to me, and his passing is a huge blow to my family and me.
“We shared many dreams and aspirations, and now he has gone, it has left much pain.”
The hotel staff, including the receptionist, have been detained for questioning, and both the manager and the owner of the hotel were invited by the police earlier this week.
The hotel was sealed for two days as investigations began, and the room where Mark lodged remains sealed.
Fani-Kayode has assured Mark’s family, including his wife, Patience, of his support during this difficult time, and stressed his commitment to ensuring justice if foul play is discovered.
“I have absolute confidence in the FCT Police Command to get to the bottom of this matter,” he added, stressing that an autopsy would be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
He also paid tribute Mark, remembering him as a kind, reliable, and compassionate individual who “brought joy to many and was incapable of hurting a fly.”
Mark is survived by his wife and two children.
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