By Ishaya Ibrahim, News Editor
Governors Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, Godwin Obaseki of Edo State and Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Saturday condoled with President Mohammadu Buhari over the death of his Chief of Staff, Mallam Abba Kyari.
Presidential spokesman, Femi Adesina, confirmed the passing of Kyari in a statement on Friday from the ravaging coronavirus (Covid-19).
Governor Uzodimma described Kyari as a Pan-Nigerian who devoted his energy and time to the service of his country.
The governor, who condoled with President Buhari, Nigerians and the government and people of Borno State on the unfortunate death of Kyari, prayed God for the peaceful repose of his soul and to grant President Buhari, the family of Kyari and his numerous friends and associates the fortitude to bear the loss.
Obaseki said he received the news of the passing of Abba Kyari with sadness, stating that his passing was a personal loss and that he would be greatly missed.
According to him, “Having associated with Abba Kyari for over two decades, I found him to be a complete gentleman, very intellectual and a true Nigerian patriot.
“He was a forthright man, who was resolute in his conviction and loyal to any course he believed in.’
He added: “I admire how he stood with President Muhammadu Buhari through thick and thin. I, therefore, express my personal condolences and that of Edo people to President Buhari, who we know will also miss Abba Kyari greatly.”
Sanwo-Olu, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described Kyari’s death as shocking, painful and a monumental loss to the nation, the people and government of Maiduguri and the Kyari family.
Sanwo-Olu said: ‘‘I received the sad news of the death of Mallam Abba Kyari, an astute public servant with a heavy heart. Mallam Kyari was a dedicated Nigerian, a deeply committed and patriotic citizen, who contributed remarkably to the smooth and successful running of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.’’
The Governor added that Kyari was a ‘‘conscientious, competent, cerebral and outstanding administrator whose life traversed the fields of law, journalism, banking and politics.’’
Sanwo-Olu described the death of Mallam Kyari as a great loss to Nigeria, happening at a time the country is desirous of more deeply patriotic individuals to contribute selflessly towards the development of the country.
The Governor urged President Buhari to take solace in the quality of life lived by Mallam Kyari and his exemplary contribution to the current administration.
He said: “as human beings, the death of a close ally will be painful and devastating, but we must always look back at the beautiful moments one shared with the deceased as well as the legacies left behind by such individual. Therefore, Mr. President should find comfort in the good works done by the late Kyari”