Buhari, others mourn Gen. Aboki, former Kwara gov

President Muhammadu Buhari has joined others to mourn the death of former Military Administrator of Kwara State, General Ahmed Abdullahi Aboki, who died on Friday after a brief illness.

In a statement by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, on Saturday, President Buhari condoled with the family, friends, associates and the government and people of Nasarawa State over the death.

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“President Buhari, who recalled the distinguished career and contributions to national development of the one-time Director of Military Intelligence (DMI), Minister of Communications, Social Development, Youth and Sports, urged all those mourning Gen. Aboki to take consolation in the knowledge that he served his country and community admirably,” the statement reads.

In his condolence message, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State said the death of General Aboki has robbed the state and nation of a fine gentleman, an astute businessman and seasoned politician who served his fatherland with undeniable patriotism.

“On behalf of the government and people of Nasarawa State, I extend our deep sympathies and condolences to the immediate family, friends, colleagues and associates of the late General Ahmed Abdullahi Aboki,” the governor said.

Also, former governor of the state, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura said, “The death of General Abdullahi Ahmed Aboki has affected Keffi Emirate, APC, Nasarawa and Nigeria, as he was a selfless person.”

Mourning the loss of the man, who held the title of Ajiyan (Treasurer) of Keffi Emirate, the Emir of Keffi, Dr Shehu Chindo Yamusa said, “I on behalf of the emirate condole the people of Keffi, Nasarawa and Nigeria over the loss of a nation builder.”

In his message, Major-General Tajudeen Olanrewaju (rtd), former GOC Third Armoured Division, Jos described late Aboki as “as an officer and a gentleman who will remain imperishable.”

General Olanrewaju, who expressed sadness on the demise of his “treasured friend” said he would forever occupy a pride of place in the development and growth of Nigeria.

The Minister (State) Science and Technology, Mohammed H. Abdullahi, who was at the burial, told Daily Trust on Sunday that Gen Aboki was part of the team that was instrumental to the growth of the then CPC in North Central, and post-merger he became the National Vice Chairman of North Central.

“He was very supportive in our build up to the 2015 general elections victory. Even though a soldier by training and career, he was a true democrat who encouraged consensus building within the party. We will miss his advice and elderly wisdom as a party man,” he said

Meanwhile, the former chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was buried in Abuja according to Islamic rites after prayers at the National Mosque.