Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode and PDP Gubernatorial candidate for Lagos, Jimi Agbaje on Saturday expressed sadness over the demise of the first executive President of Nigeria and elder statesman, Shehu Shagari.
Shagari, who was the first and only President of Nigeria’s Second Republic from 1979 to 1983, died on Friday in Abuja at the age of 93.
Governor Ambode, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Habib Aruna, described the late Shagari as a complete gentleman, a thorough bred democrat and philanthropist per excellence who contributed immensely to Nigeria’s growth and development.
“The late President lived an exemplary life; he was a democrat and a fine gentle man whose idea of power was that of being a tool to serve his fatherland and humanity. He was an elder statesman in the true sense of the word.
“He was also a detribalized Nigerian who was committed to the course of a united, indivisible and prosperous Nigeria. He believed so much in all inclusive governance and was one of those patriotic Nigerians who contributed in laying the foundation of a sustainable democracy in Nigeria,” Governor Ambode said.
While commiserating with the family of the late elder statesman, the Governor urged them to uphold the ideals he stood for, saying that the nation will continue to draw inspiration from his life and times.
“His demise, just like that of our heroes past, must never be in vain. There can be no better time to unite together to achieve a better and more prosperous Nigeria.
“On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I want to express our heartfelt condolence to the family of Alhaji Shehu Shagari on this great and irreparable loss. He was a pride to our country and we will surely miss him,” Governor Ambode said.
Also, Agbaje described the former President Shehu Shagari as an embodiment of quiet but dignified leadership.
He added that “Ex-President Shagari provided Nigeria with selfless leadership at a turning point in her history, which was immediately after years of military rule with so much dignity.
“Shagari rarely complained; he was also not given to frivolity and he certainly was not prone to passing the buck because he assumed responsibility for any challenge he faced in government and equally tackled them head on,” Agbaje said.
“Outside office too, he maintained a dignified stoicism despite daunting personal circumstances and never courted the limelight after leaving office. He was again a symbol of unobstrusive efficiency and humility. Nigeria has lost a great icon of leadership. Ex- President Shagari will be sorely missed.”
Aged 93, Shagari’s remains would be interred today in his homestead.