•••SAYS NIGERIA LOST A GREAT NATION BUILDER
The Ijaw Elders Forum on Saturday, said Nigerian has lost a great nation builder, a patriot, nationalist and a great leader in the death of Chief Tony Graham-Douglas.
The group expressed sadness over the death of the national icon and conveyed its condolences to the family of the deceased.
In a condolence message signed by Chief Bukazi Etete, Chairman IEF, the group said the late Graham-Douglas was a nationalist who served the country with enthusiasm
The IEF, extolled the virtues of Graham-Douglas as a patriot, who served Nigeria, with exceptional commitment in several capacities as Minister in the Federal cabinet for several ministries under different administrations.
“The Ijaw Elders Forum commiserates with the family of late Alabo Tonye Graham-Douglas, the good people of Kalabari Kingdom, the Ijaw Nation, the Government and good people of Rivers State and Federal Republic of Nigeria on the passing unto eternity of a great Ijaw Icon, Chief Alabo Tonye Graham-Douglas.
“We mourn this great leader of men and nation builder. He was an elder statesman that strived for the emancipation of the Ijaw people in Nigeria.
“He attained great heights as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in charge of several ministries.
“He was Minister of Aviation, Tourism, Labour and Productivity as well as Youths, Sports and Culture at different times.
“He will be greatly missed for his candour and amiable disposition to issues of nation building.
“May God comfort his loved ones and admirers,” IEF stated.