Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has described late elder statesman, Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sule as a great man and a patriot who contributed to the development of the country.
He made the remark when he paid a condolence visit to the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II at his Palace and the family of the late elder statesman on Thursday.
He said the death of Maitama Sule was not only a loss to the country but to entire Africa in view of his immense contributions to world politics.
“The late Diplomat died at a time when the country needed him most and that his experience matters. I have a great affection for him because he was an incredible orator. He was a father, mentor and patriotic who contributed to the development of Nigeria,” he said.
He called on Nigerians irrespective of their ethnic and religious background to continue to live and love one another for the sustenance of peace and stability in the country.
“His death is huge loss to the country because he was a bridge builder. I first met him when I was 15 years old, Maitama was Minister then, he came to deliver a lecture in our school during John Kennedy quiz competition.”
Responding, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II thanked the Acting President for the visit despite sending a high powered delegation that attended the funeral.
He prayed for the quick recovery of President Muhammadu Buhari and equally sought God’s guidance for the Kano State Governor, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje in his resolve to propel the state to greater heights.
Also during a condolence visit to the family of the Late Danmasanin Kano, Osinbajo urged the people to follow the footsteps of the deceased, adding that he carried everyone along during his life time.
The acting president said the deceased would be remembered for his efforts toward ensuring continued peace and unity in the country.
According to Osinbajo, the death of Sule had created a very big vacuum not only to the people of Kano, his family and friends, but also to the country at large.
“The late Dan-masanin Kano was a bridge builder who spent his life in building other people’s lives without considering their differences. Therefore, such people need to be honoured in many ways, especially by writing books about his life and his struggle in making sure that Nigeria remain united”.
Also speaking at the occasion, Kano State Gov. Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, described the deceased as a simple, friendly and as someone who carried everyone along, irrespective of differences.
“The kind of life the late Danmasani lived is worthy of emulation by all, especially the young ones, because he made great impact in ensuring that they had the country in their minds and not for their personal interest.”
Osinbajo was accompanied by Sen Kabiru Gaya, Senior Special Assistant to President on National Assembly, Alhaji Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila and Senior Special Assistant to President on Social Interventions, Hajiya Maryam Uwais, among other top government officials.