Shonekan was Head of State at a difficult time – Tinubu

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has commiserated with Governor Dapo Abiodun, Mrs Magret Shonekan and the people of Ogun State over the death of former Head of the Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan.

In a message signed by his media aide, Mr Tunde Rahman, Tinubu expressed shock and sadness over the demise of Shonekan, saying the country has lost another statesman.

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He said he would be remembered for being the Head of State at a difficult time.

He said, “I received, with great sadness, the news of the passing of the former Head of the Interim National Government, Chief Shonekan, at the advanced age of 85. I join his immediate family in mourning his passing, but also in celebrating his lifelong contributions to our great nation.

“With his passing, the country has lost another important elder statesman; a man of peace who tried to bring unity and concord during one of the nation’s most trying moments.

“Chief Ernest was a technocrat and boardroom guru. He performed excellently as Chairman of United African Company, a vast Nigerian conglomerate. Indeed, were the circumstances of his ascension to the top position in our country different, I have little doubt that Chief Shonekan would have led Nigeria with the same vision and skill with which he guided UAC.

Tinubu continued, “He had the character, competence, capability and the technical background to undertake the job. In his brief time as Head of State, Chief Shonekan tried his best to advance peace, stability and development in Nigeria.

“Chief Shonekan will be remembered as a peacemaker and Head of State who took office at a most difficult time. I commiserate with his immediate family, most especially his loving wife, Mrs Margret, Governor Dapo Abiodun and all the people of Ogun State and Nige.”