President Jonathan Hails Ex President Shagari At 89

President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday opened the floodgate of tributes for former President Shehu Shagari, who will be 89 on Tuesday.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati said the president personally wrote a congratulatory message to Shagari, praising his continued dedication to the unity and wellbeing of the country.
“On behalf of the government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and on my own behalf, I write to felicitate with you as you celebrate your 89th birthday anniversary”, Abati quoted the president as saying.


“May Almighty Allah ceaselessly prosper you and bless you with robust health as you continue to give of yourself in the service of our dear nation,” the president wrote I wish you a very happy birthday and also conveyed assurances of his highest consideration and warm personal regards.
In another — though contrasting — statement, Jonathan wrote to condole with Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero on Friday’s death of the Tafidan Kano, Alhaji Tijani Abubakar.
“On behalf of the government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and on my own behalf, I write to commiserate with Your Highness, the people of Kano Emirate, and the entire people of Kano State on this sad loss”, the president said, praying that Almighty Allah would grant the Emir, Alhaji Tijani’s family and the people of Kano the fortitude to cope with the painful loss of the Tafidan.
Members of the Northern States Governors Forum also joining Jonathan to eulogise ex-President Shagari, describing him as a statesman of uncommon pedigree.
“Shagari played politics without bitterness and placed topmost premium on the values and virtues of constitutional democracy”, Chairman of the forum and Governor of Niger State, Babangida Aliyu said in a statement signed by his spokesman, Danladi Ndayebo.
“Shagari’s politics eschews bitterness. Even opponents concede that he is a disciplined man, whose life symbolises a rejection of the corrupting influences that distract the commitment of some leaders.
“Shagari is the greatest statesman around today. Nigerians should emulate his exemplary life that was characterised by honesty, selflessness and the fear of God.
The forum is proud to be associated with his, especially his contributions to the deepening of the nation’s democracy. May God grant him excellent health, courage and many more years of selfless service to Nigeria and humanity”.
The octogenarian was president of the country on the platform of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) between 1st October 1979 and New Year’s Eve of 1983, when his government was overthrown by General Muhammadu Buhari.

Source: Sahara Reporters