A high-powered Federal government delegation was in Minna to condole with the government and people of Niger state over the death of renowned Islamic Scholar, Sheikh Ahmed Lemu who passed away in the early hours of Thursday.
The delegation, led by the Hon. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Muhammad Musa Bello and that of Communication and Digital Technology, Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami was received by Governor Abubakar Sani Bello at the Government House, Minna.
Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, who spoke on behalf of the delegation, said they were in the state capital to represent and extend President Muhammadu Buhari’s heartfelt condolences to the Family, government and people of the state over the huge loss.
He said President Buhari has tremendous respect for the late Sheikh Lemu which is why he immediately sent the delegation upon hearing the passing away of the foremost religious leader, author and champion of peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths.
The Minister, who eulogized late Sheikh Lemu, said the country is, indeed proud of the deceased’s achievements and accomplishments as well as his service to Allah and humanity. “Most of us are beneficiaries of his vast expanse of knowledge and teachings”, he said.
Isa Ali Pantami prayed Allah to reward the deceased with Jannatul Firdausi, forgive his shortcomings and take care of the family he left behind.
Responding, Governor Abubakar Sani Bello thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for his concern adding that the powerful delegation sent clearly shows how he held the deceased in high esteem.
The Governor noted that the death of Sheikh Lemu has created a huge vacuum that may never be filled stressing that the demise of the cleric is not only a huge loss to the family and state, but the country as a whole.
“We are indeed grieved by his demise because finding his type will be very difficult these days. He dedicated most of his time and effort in the service of humanity and all of his works to Allah. We’ll continue to put him in prayer for Allah to grant him paradise and protect his family”.
