The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed profound sadness over the loss of two esteemed elder statesmen, Pa Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clark, describing their passing as a major loss to the country.
In a heartfelt message, the NEF extended its condolences to the bereaved families and joined the nation in mourning, offering prayers for the eternal rest of the departed leaders.
In a statement on Sunday, NEF Convener, Professor Ango Abdullahi, conveyed the forum’s condolences to the families of the deceased and the nation at large, acknowledging the invaluable roles the two leaders played in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape
Abdullahi stated: “The loss of these illustrious leaders at this critical stage of our national development, will certainly leave a huge vacuum, which would be difficult to fill.
“Their separate but inseparable lives, were a living testament to their unmatched dedication to the respective geopolitical zones they hailed from and the ethnic nationalities they belonged to, for which the duo became tireless advocates and unrelenting crusaders.”
Despite regional differences, Abdullahi revealed how both figures maintained strong ties with NEF and participated in patriotic dialogues to promote national unity.
He reflected on their efforts to bridge divides between Nigeria’s diverse regions, saying, “On such occasions, the exchanges were characterized by mutual respect, cordiality, and warm affection. These few encounters left a lasting impression of the seriousness, dedication, and wisdom exuded by these iconic leaders.
“This partly explains the reason for the high esteem with which the leaders of the two regional organizations have managed to maintain envious civility and rare rapprochement, in addressing contentious national issues.
“Without doubt, the departure of these political giants, foreshadows the sombre condition in which our dear country is now getting deeply enmeshed.
“But, fortunately for Nigeria and Nigerians, the enormous sacrifices and the many exemplary contributions made by these two notable personalities, will continue to serve as an inexhaustible armory in equipping future generations to soar from one epochal triumph to another.”
The NEF prayed for their souls and encouraging Nigerians to carry forward the ideals of unity, patriotism, and selfless service championed by Adebanjo and Clark.
