Shagari, a true patriot, servant-leader, APC says in tribute to late former Nigeria’s President

Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Sunday paid tribute to the late former Nigeria’s President, Alhaji Aliyu Usman Shehu Shagari, who died on Friday at the National Hospital Abuja at 93.

The APC, in a statement personally signed by its National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, described the late leader as a true patriot and servant-leader.

“The late Alh. Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari who from 1979 to 1983, was the first executive president of Nigeria, is being remembered in several glowing tributes by the ordinary Nigerian, institutions and leaders – locally and internationally.

“Our great party, the All Progressives congress (APC) fondly remembers the late Shagari as a fine gentleman, patriot, epitome of humility, poet, technocrat, servant-leader and an elder statesman who genuinely loved Nigeria.

“The career and political projection of the late Shagari who started out as a school teacher, who later joined politics, held numerous high offices, culminating in his election as the President  under the platform of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) was the stuff of legends.

“His exemplary conduct, candour and principled stance in public office and private life remains an inspiration to many. The late Shagari was a stabilizing personality who was ever ready to lend his voice and influence when the country needed it.

“The country has indeed lost a rare-breed leader. While the death of the late Shagari is a sad and painful loss to the family, Sokoto State, the Council of State and indeed the entire nation, we should take solace in the fact that he lived an impactful life.

“The late Shagari long wrote his name into the history books. Truly, the story of our democratic and political development will be inconclusive without his footprint.

“The APC expresses its condolences and prays the Almighty Allah grant the late Shagari eternal rest and the family the strength to bear the loss.”