Senate president, Saraki, others mourn late ambassador

The Senate President Abubakar Bukola Saraki on Saturday expressed sadness over the death of Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States, Prof. Adebowale Ibidapo Adefuye, in Washington DC.

Saraki described the death as a monumental loss to Nigeria whose international image Adefuye passionately shaped and defended in the U.S until his last breath.

The Senate President in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sanni Onogu, in Abuja, said: “It is really sad that Adefuye waved us goodbye at a time his excellent services as a diplomat of repute are in dire need.

Similarly, Senator Gbenga Ashafa representing Lagos East Senatorial District commiserated with the family of the late ambassador saying Adefutye was well known to him.

Ashafa said the late ambassador’s legacy of service in Nigeria’s Diplomatic Corps has earned him a well-deserved spot in Nigerian as a country.

“During his time as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States, he demonstrated that he was a passionate Nigerian both in words and in deed. We can’t help but remember his spirited, patriotic defense of our national interest and image every time Nigeria’s reputation was at stake in the United States.

He is a well-travelled fellow and thoroughly learned gentleman and scholar. I pray for the repose of his soul. May God grant his family the comfort and peace during this critical period” Ashafa ended.