Senate President Senator David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have sent messages of condolence to the government and people of Ondo state over the demise of paramount ruler of Akure , Oba Adabiyi Adesida Afunbiowo 11(Deji of Akure).
In his message to Governor Olusegun Mimiko, Mark lamented what he said was the untimely death of the Deji when he was most needed to help the country surmount some of her pressing challenges.
According to a statement by Mark’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Paul Mumeh, the Senate President described the late monarch as ‘a promoter of peace, unity and the Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, especially the Yoruba culture and tradition.”
Wrote Mark: “My heart goes to the immediate family, the government and people of Ondo state over this painful loss. We take solace in the fact that the late Deji contributed positively to the development of the nation during his life time.
“As a traditional ruler, he was exemplary . He was a father figure to all. He preached peace and worked for peace. We shall miss his good works”., he added.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also described the late regent as a promoter of peace in his kingdom and Nigeria.
Atiku, in a statement by his media organisation, urged the people to trust God to provide another good ruler.
He said, “Since it is God that makes and takes kings, the government of Ondo State and the people of Akure and the family of the late monarch must not cease to have the confidence and trust that the Almighty will provide another king for the kingdom.”
Both political leaders prayed God to grant the “bereaved family, the people of Akure Township and the government of Ondo State the fortitude to bear the loss of their traditional ruler.”