By Dipo Awojobi – President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Nigerians to emulate the life of the late Yoruba leader, Pa Olaniwun Ajayi who died on Friday, saying the late nationalist “effectively combined his sharp commentary on the state of affairs in Nigeria with uncommon patriotism while working tenaciously to further unity, development and prosperity in the nation.”
Buhari noted his longlife commitment to dialogue, democracy and development, adding that thses are key ingredients for national growth.
In a statement by Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Femi Adesina, the President expressed “heartfelt condolences to the family of Ajayi and the entire Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, on the passage of one of its oldest surviving members, Sir Olaniwun Ajayi, aged 91.
“The President also commiserates with the government and people of Ogun State on the demise of their illustrious son, author, legal practitioner, elder statesman and nationalist.
“President Buhari pays tribute to Pa Ajayi’s inspirational and dedicated work to entrench and strengthen democracy in Nigeria through his passionate engagements in Afenifere, the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and the Patriots.
“Guided by Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s principle, the President believes that the late revered Yoruba leader effectively combined his sharp commentary on the state of affairs in Nigeria with uncommon patriotism while working tenaciously to further unity, development and prosperity in the nation,” he stated.
“President Buhari urges all who mourn Pa Ajayi to emulate his lifelong commitment to dialogue, democracy and development, which are key ingredients for national growth.
“He prays that God will comfort Pa Ajayi’s family and grant the soul of the departed eternal rest.”
