President Buhari says late Emir of Borgu was a great patriot

President Muhammadu Buhari said he received news of the death of Emir of Borgu, Niger State, Alhaji Haliru Dantoro, Kitoro III, with great sadness, adding that he was a great patriot and unifier.

This is contained in a statement issued by the presidential spokesman, Mr Femi Adesina, in Abuja on Saturday.

According to the statement, Buhari feels the death with immense personal and national loss and on behalf of himself, the Federal Government and Nigerians, extends sincere condolences to the late Emir’s family and the people of Borgu Emirate.

He said the late Emir ruled the people of Borgu Emirate for many years ``with commendable wisdom, benevolence and an uncommon dedication to duty.’’

According to the statement, the President also commiserates with the government and entire people of Niger State on the death of the very illustrious traditional ruler.

``The late monarch was a friend and associate of many years, with whom he shared the vision of a peaceful, politically stable, united, progressive and prosperous Nigeria to which every citizen will be proud to belong.

``President Buhari will forever treasure his memories of the late Emir as a great patriot, indefatigable unifier and bridge-builder.

``Dantoro did his utmost best as a political leader and traditional ruler to strengthen the bonds that bind Nigerians together in the interest of national peace, harmony and progress.

``The President prays that Almighty Allah will receive Dantoro’s soul and grant his people a worthy successor who will build on the laudable legacies of his life of service to community and country’’, the statement added.