The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has condoled with Senator Bukola Saraki over the death of his father and Second Republic Senate Leader, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.
In a message to the younger Saraki, signed by the Chairman of the NGF and Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, the governors said: “We hereby condole our former chairman, Senator Bukola Saraki, the entire Saraki family, the government and people of Kwara State, and the Nigerian Senate over the death of Oloye Olusola Saraki, a former Senate Leader and one of Nigeria’s most accomplished statesmen, politician and businessman.
“It is unfortunate that Chief Saraki, a man of uncommon humility, a nationally acclaimed philanthropist and political icon, passed on at a time our country needed his invaluable service most. His loss is no doubt a monumental loss to our nation.
“Chief Saraki’s departure is both painful and shocking. But we take solace in the fact that he lived and died well. He dedicated his life to serving the poor and powerless. He mixed freely with the underprivileged and lived substantially organizing and fighting for the upliftment of his people while making important contributions to Nigeria’s national development. He touched many lives, and taught lessons on communal living and the service of one’s community.
“Although, we cannot but grief over the death of this public spirited man, we are sure that Chief Saraki will long be remembered as a community leader, an effective and consummate political figure, a national icon and grassroots mobiliser.
“We believe Oloye has left for us a great legacy. We commiserated with the Saraki family, the people and government of Kwara and Nigerians in general, and pray God to give us all the fortitude to bear this great loss. May the soul of this great statesman rest in peace.”