The Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dakuku Adol Peterside says with the demise of Nigeria’s former vice president, Dr Alex Ekwueme, the country has lost one of her finest statesmen since Independence.
Dr Peterside described the late Ekwueme as a national leader, "political iroko and an apostle of non-violence,” who commanded the respect of all Nigerians for his “simplicity, honesty , selflessness and unwavering” believe in one Nigeria.
He stressed further that the nation has lost a fine gentleman, whose wisdom, understanding, knowledge and bridge-building capability will be missed; especially at a time the current Federal Government is leading the change programme to restore the dignity of our country.
“I have always admired Dr Alex Ekwueme. He carries himself with so much grace, respect and confidence. He speaks words of wisdom and has this humility that is uncommon.
“He is among the generation of politicians who served selflessly and was never found wanting. You may not belong to his political party or leaning but you cannot but respect his views, which he canvasses with strength of character and conviction .
"His greatest attribute is honesty and courage. He went to government in 1979 and came out poorer in 1983. He is among the few that came out from Shagari government without a stain.
"He led a group of 34 Nigerian patriots , G-34 , to challenge the military in government. G-34 and other activists ended up pushing out the Military and enthroning democracy.
"He lost the presidential primaries of a party he co-founded and yet accepted it in good faith. Such is the make of late Ekwueme.
“With his demise, we have lost a statesman, a gentleman per excellence and a father. His interventions in critical national matters will be missed by current and emerging generations,” he stated.
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