Nasrul Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT) on Monday expressed sadness over the demise of Nigeria’s first civilian president, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, saying the deceased stood for defence of unity and greatness of the country.
NASFAT President, Engr. Kamil Yomi Bolarinwa in a statement urged the present politicians to emulate the late President and apply his principles in nation building.
According to the foremost Islamic organization, his personal traits and attributes of truthfulness, transparency, probity and integrity were the factors that earned him greater respect among his contemporaries and Nigerians.
“These were the factors that equally earned him a clean bill of health when his administration was removed in 1983”, the statement added.
NASFAT said Shagari would be remembered for laudable policies of his administration such as green revolution which succeeded in providing abundant foods and jobs in the country in the 80s.
It added that though his administration was truncated, he bored no grudge against any succeeding administration and offered advice to all the administrations after him till death.
The organization said it felt a deep sense of loss as the country “lost one of its finest”, adding that Shagari was not only a patriot but a special breed of politician.
It added, “His was a life of service to his compatriots having served as a teacher, administrator, politician and ultimately as the President of our dear nation.
“A detribalized Nigerian, he related with every part of Nigeria with uncommon fervour and love thereby fostering peaceful coexistence and harmony”.