President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the passing of Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, elder statesman, First Republic parliamentarian and Minister of Aviation.
According to a statement by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, he extended his heartfelt condolences to the Amaechi family, the government and people of Anambra State and Ohaneze Ndigbo, stating that he joins them and other Nigerians in mourning a great patriot who believed deeply in a united Nigeria, and continued to work for its progress, undeterred by his age and personal circumstances.
President Buhari said he jas very fond memories of his recent meetings with the respected Nationalist, in November 2021 in Abuja and May 2022 in Abakiliki, Ebonyi State, and these words of his on November 19, still resonate:
“I don’t want to leave this planet without peace returning to my country. I believe in one big, united Nigeria, a force in Africa. Mr President, I want you to be remembered as a person who saw Nigeria burning, and you quenched the fire.”
The President extolling the frankness, wisdom, honesty and advice of Amaechi on the situation in the South Eastern part of the country and the way forward, affirmed that the nonagenarian will also be remembered for his warmth, values and devotion to the service of the nation.
President Buhari prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed and comfort for all who mourn.