PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has commiserated with the Catholic Pontiff, Pope Francis, President and members of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, and the entire Catholic community in the country, on the passage of the Bishop Emeritus of Sokoto, Most Rev Kevin Joseph Aje.
A statement issued by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President (Media and Publicity) in Abuja on Thursday informed that the Bishop Emeritus, aged 85, served as a priest for almost 50 years, retiring at Sokoto in 2011.
President Buhari recalled his steadfast advocacy of cordiality between Christians and Muslims in the country, and how he was a peacemaker and bridge builder, stressing that this would resonate whenever the departed cleric comes to mind.
Buhari recommended the sterling virtues of Most Rev Aje to younger priests and preachers, and to all Nigerians at large.
He described the Bishop Emeritus as a “great spiritual father,” who has left his footprints on the sands of time.
ALSO READ: 9th NASS: PDP Reps caucus directs members to support speakership aspirant of choice
President Buhari prays for the repose of the soul of the Bishop Emeritus.
The President also sent condolences to Ilorin Emirate Council over the loss of Alhaja Aishat Nma Sulukarnaini Gambari, mother of His Royal Highness, Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari.
President Buhari commiserated with Emir of Ilorin and members of the royal family, Kwara State Government and indigenes over the passing of Alhaja Sulukarnaini Gambari whose love and kindness transcended the palace walls, reaching the poor and underprivileged.
As matriarch of the family, the President expressed his belief that Alhaja Sulukarnaini Gambari’s virtuosity will be greatly remembered by all those who met, stayed and lived with her, affirming that her life typified a fear and love for Allah that was clearly demonstrated in her humility, generosity, wise counsels and warmth to both family and strangers.
President Buhari urged the royal family to find solace in the will of Allah and take pride in the legacies of the Emir’s mother, who was born into a life of privileges and opportunities but consistently remained relevant to her community and nation in rendering services to humanity.
The President prayed that Allah grants her Al-Jannah Firdaus and give the family the fortitude to bear the loss.
and then