The Federal Government of Nigeria has commiserated with the Na’Abba family, and the Akeredolu’s family over the death of former Speaker, Ghali Umar Na’Abba and the Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, died on Wednesday 27th December, 2023.
Information and National Orientation Minister, Mohammed Idris in a separate statement, on behalf of the government prayed that Allah should grant these families and their loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
He said, “As the second Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives in the 4th Republic, Na’Abba earned a name and reputation for himself as a committed democrat and a fearless politician.
“Who resolutely believed in the doctrine of separation of powers that is at foundation of all functioning democracies. He fought and survived many political battles, and helped cement the reputation of the House of Representatives as a pro-people institution”, Idris added.
The Minister noted that Na’Abba’s legacies of leadership as 4th House of Representatives are still very much with the people, in the legislation passed, and the institutions and parliamentary precedents established.
“In the years since his time in the House, even whilst not in public office, he remained a bold and forthright politician, respected by all, including those who did not share his views. There is no doubt that Nigeria’s democracy is poorer for his passing”.
Also, Idris in a statement released said Arakunrin Akeredolu was a towering presence on the legal landscape, rising to lead the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) at a critical moment in our nation’s journey.
Adding that Akeredolu capped this record of professional excellence with distinguished service as a public servant and administrator, winning two consecutive terms as the elected Governor of Ondo State.
He said Akeredolu’s courage and dynamism found recognition in his emergence as the Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum, a position that he deployed ceaselessly to champion justice, security, equity and true federalism.
“As a committed member of the ruling All Progressives Congress, and a strong symbol of the progressivism upon which the party and the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are founded, Akeredolu could be counted upon for his forthrightness, and devotion to the wellbeing of people at the grassroots”.
The Minister stated that at all times, Akeredolu is a man of the people. “These multitudes whose causes he championed tirelessly will never forget him. Akeredolu’s developmental legacies as Governor of Ondo State will surely stand the test of time. We mourn him deeply, and pray for the repose of his soul”, he said.
