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By Nasir Kura
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness at the news of the passing away of the first executive President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari.
In a condolence message, the President said Shagari’s death was the departure of a patriot whose life of service and humility was widely acknowledged.
“We are enthralled and regaled with the many years of unequalled patriotism, sacrifices and contributions to national development. More specifically, we celebrate the role modelling qualities of integrity, diligence and humility that have been the hallmark of your visionary leadership,” the President recalled part of the birthday message he sent to the deceased in February 2018.
The President said he grateful to God that Shagari lived to a ripe age and led an exemplary life, and urged Nigerians of all walks of life to emulate him.
“Nigerians held him in the highest esteem even when he was out of office until his demise and will forever miss his wise counsels,” the President said.
He prayed that Almighty God would comfort the family of the ex-president and all those who mourn him and will grant the soul of the late nonagerian eternal rest.
