The Northern Governors Forum has described the death of Mallam Isma’ila Isa Funtua, as a painful one.
DAILY POST reported that a close ally of President Muhammadu Buhari, Funtua died on Monday after suffering cardiac arrest.
Reacting to the news, the Chairman of the forum and governor of Plateau, Simon Lalong, in a condolence message by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Makut Macham, on Monday in Jos, said Funtua’s death was a loss to the nation.
“This is a great loss to his family, the Northern Region, and the entire nation considering his overwhelming contributions to national development.
“He built bridges among people of different ethnic, religious, and political persuasions and also encouraged unity, peace, and tolerance,” he said.
”His business acumen, humility, and hard work among his many achievements would continue to inspire the younger generation, especially as a worthy role model amidst the loss of confidence of selfless leaders in the nation,” he added.
He also commiserated with President Muhammadu Buhari over the loss of the deceased who was his long term associate and political ally and offered counsel to the government on many issues.
”I condole with Funtua’s family and pray for God to give them the fortitude to bear the loss.
”Nigeria, especially the Northern Region, would miss his wealth of wisdom and knowledge which he offered during critical times.
”I also pray that his soul finds rest,” he added.
