President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has commiserated with the family of a former Military Governor of Benue State, General Ishaya Bakut, on his passing away.
General Bakut died two days ago after a brief illness.
In a statement by his spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, Jonathan also extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Gen. Bakut’s home state, Kaduna.
The President joined them in mourning the late General who served the nation admirably in various capacities during his years in the Nigerian Army.
President Jonathan assured Gen. Bakut’s family and the people of Kaduna State that the nation will remain eternally grateful for the former military governor’s courageous service as a Company and Battalion Commander during the Nigerian Civil War.
The President believes that Gen. Bakut, whose career highlights included service as Commander of the 41 Engineers Brigade, Kaduna; member of the Nigerian contingent in the United Nations Peace-Keeping Force in Lebanon; and Principal Staff Officer to the Chief Of General Staff, will also be long remembered and honoured within and outside the country for his very commendable role as Field Commander of the West African Multinational Force in Liberia.
President Jonathan prayed that God Almighty will grant Gen. Bakut’s soul peaceful rest and comfort his grieving family and close relations.