President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the passing of former Senator Joseph Kennedy Waku.
Commiserating with the family of the senator, who represented Benue North-West (1999-2003) and the government and people of Benue State, the President in a statement by Femi Adesina, his Senior Special Adviser, MEDIA AND PUBLICITY, recallED Waku’s contributions to the growth of education when he served as Pro-Chancellor, Federal University of Technology, Akure.
President Buhari urged the children, friends and political associates of the late elder statesman to keep alive his commitment to the unity, peace and stability of not only Benue State, but also the entire country.
The President prayed Almighty God to comfort the family and all those who mourn the septuagenarian and grant his soul eternal rest.
Meanwhile, the Vice –Chancellor, Federal University of Technology Azure, FUTA, Professor Joseph Fuwape, described Sen. Waku’s death as a sad occurrence especially at a time when the Pro Chancellor had settled into his role of steering the ship of the University to greater heights.
He said Waku, 72, who became the Pro-Chancellor at a very challenging time, through deft managerial skills ensured the stability of the institution and resolution of a lingering crisis.
He described him as a patriot who contributed significantly to national development at various levels and during his stint as a member of the Nigerian Senate between 1999 and 2003.
“Our University will miss his leadership, wise counsel, camaraderie and peace building efforts. On behalf of Council, Senate, Staff and students of FUTA, I express our heartfelt condolence to the family and the people of Benue State over this irreparable loss. May the Good Lord grant his family, FUTA, and his friends and associates the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. And may the good Lord grant him eternal repose,” Professor Fuwape said.
Senator Joseph Waku was appointed the Pro Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of FUTA by the Federal Government on May 9 , 2017 and served in that capacity until his death on Sunday , February 3, 2019.