GFormer Vice Chairman Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Nurudeen Abatemi-Usman, has condoled with the family, government and people of Kogi State over the demise of former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Salihu Ibrahim (Rtd).
In a condolence message personally signed by Abatemi-Usman, he described the late retired general as a distinguished Nigerian who made significant input to the advancement of the Nigerian Army, Kogi State and Nigeria in general.
“It is with great sadness that I received the news of the passing of General Salihu Ibrahim (Rtd), an illustrious son of Kogi State who made exceptionally outstanding feats in his military career and served Nigeria meritoriously.
“The late General was a disciplined soldier, gentleman to the core and an advocate of peace, unity and love amongst the people. He wholeheartedly and selflessly devoted his energy and time to the service of humanity and contributed greatly to the growth and development of Kogi State and Nigeria as a whole,” the former lawmaker said.
He added: “As the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District between 2011 and 2015, I benefitted immensely from his wise counsel and simplicity. He was always available to give the necessary fatherly advice that really helped me in most of the decisions I took in the interest of the people of Kogi Central. His legacy will stand as a shining example for all of us to persist in our pursuit of progress.
“On behalf of my family, I convey our deepest condolences to His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello, the people of Kogi State, particularly the people of Ajaokuta Local Government Area (LGA) on the demise of this great icon and nobleman whose life was an inspiration to many.
“May God grant the immediate family, the Ebira nation, entire people of Kogi State and Nigeria the fortitude to bear the monumental and irreparable loss!”
The deceased general joined the Nigerian Army in 1956 and rose to become the COAS between 1990 to 1993, during the military administration of Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB). He reportedly died in his home in Kogi State at the age of 83.
