President Muhammadu Buhari has reacted to the death of journalist, Kola Animasaun.
Animasaun died at the age of 79.
A statement Thursday night by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, quoted Buhari as offering his deepest condolences to the Animasaun family and friends, including the management of Vanguard Media Limited, publishers of Vanguard Newspapers, where the late veteran newsman spent many years as a formidable columnist.
The President also commiserated with the Nigerian Union of Journalists and the Nigerian Guild of Editors.
“President Buhari believes that Alhaji Animasaun will be long remembered and honoured for the rich and elucidating write-ups in the ”Voice of Reason” column he leaves behind; the many literary works he authored as well as the array of media professionals he trained and mentored on the ethics of the noble pen profession.
“As a distinguished member of the Fourth Estate of the Realm who was largely recognized and admired by colleagues as a consummate professional, the President pays tribute to the late veteran’s contributions to the development of journalism in the country”, it read.
Similarly, Buhari condoled with the family of Gomwalk, government and people of Plateau State on the death of scholar and community leader, Professor Umaru Gomwalk.
He was, at various times a teacher, Vice Chancellor and Chairman, Presidential Advisory Council and the Governing Council of the Nigerian National Merit Award.
Speaking on Professor Gomwalk’s demise, President Buhari said the nation has lost an illustrious teacher and scholar who distinguished himself by delivering results in responsibilities assigned to him.
According to the President, “Professor Gomwalk was so dedicated and hardworking that he got tested with administering the University of Nigeria, Nsukka under circumstances that were difficult and unusual. In carrying out this assignment, he demonstrated the same dedication and passion for service while ensuring justice to all. He did not disappoint the nation.”
President Buhari said he was deeply touched by the death of this “dedicated and creative public servant” and urged younger Nigerians to “emulate such rare and hardworking citizen for the progress of our country.’’
The President prays God Almighty to grant eternal rest to the departed and comfort family, friends and well-wishers who mourn this illustrious son of Nigeria.
