Elder statesman, Maitama Sule, passes on

Elder statesman and renowned orator, Dr. Maitama Sule, is dead. He was aged 87. The Nigerian permanent representative to the United Nations, known for his oratory died earlier today in a Cairo, Egypt according to a statement released by the family. The body of Alhaji Sule who holds the title of Danmasanin Kano is expected to arrive Nigeria tomorrow Tuesday, July 4. A funeral will be conducted at the Kano Central Jumaat mosque at the Emir’s palace at 30 pm.pm Nigerian time.

An official message from the Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, read thus;

“I have received with profound sorrow the news of the passing away earlier today of Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sule, orator, elder-statesman, distinguished diplomat and the Danmasinin Kano. I extend deep and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, associates and the government of Kano State, praying that the Almighty God comforts all.

One-time Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and Federal Minister in the first republic, Dr. Maitama Sule, is best remembered on the global scene, as one of our country’s foremost envoys whose clarity of voice and vision contributed significantly to the high esteem and respect Nigeria earned at the United Nations.

Alhaji Sule is an illustrious son of Nigeria and his death is a loss to the nation. Alhaji Sule, a great Nigerian leader and committed nationalist, positioned himself as an agent of unity.

As he advanced gracefully in age, he was always prepared to reach out to other leaders of thought across the country in the noble quest for unity, tolerance and national cohesion. He did not waver in lending his voice to the promotion of moderation in national discourse, and his graceful conduct thereto would be sorely missed.

Alhaji Sule never relented applying his wealth of experience to advance the cause of unity, peace and progress of Nigeria, and his fatherly counsel to those in authority had always been bold, sincere and untainted.

I recall his patriotic fervour, and passionate zeal for public service. Alhaji Sule’s unparalleled dedication to duty as a formidable diplomat, politician, Minister and acclaimed orator whose well researched and excellently delivered speeches inspired and impressed several Nigerians, including myself.

My heart goes out to the friends and associates and I urge them to be consoled by the fact that his selfless commitment to the stability of Nigeria will not be forgotten and will always be honoured.

On behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari, the Government and the entire people of Nigeria, I convey heartfelt condolences on this loss of a great national asset”.