President Buhari mourns literary icon, Gabriel Okara

President Muhammadu Buhari mourns passage of the renowned poet, novelist and playwright, Gabriel Okara, aged 97.

Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, made this known in a statement he issued in Abuja on Monday.

“On behalf of the Federal Executive Council, the President extends heartfelt commiserations to the Okara family, the government and people of Bayelsa State, the literary community and all who drank from the writer’s fountain of knowledge.

“As a dedicated and well-published writer in all the literary genres, President Buhari believes Okara, who was deservedly known as the ‘‘founder of Modern African literature’’ will be fondly remembered for his immense contributions to the development of African literature, drawing on experience from his native Ijaw language.

“The President extols the great story-teller whose powerful use of imagery and symbolism in his literary writings helped the world to appreciate and understand the richness, complexities and uniqueness of the African heritage and culture.

“President Buhari prays Almighty God to grant the soul of the departed writer peaceful repose and comfort all who mourn,” the statement said.