Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State has described the death of Governor Patrick Yakowa of Kaduna state and General Owoye Azazi in a helicopter crash as shocking.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Peter Okhiria, Comrade Oshiomhole said: “I received with great shock, news of the death of my brother Governor, Mr Patrick Yakowa and General Owoye Azazi in a helicopter crash in Bayelsa state.
“I wish to convey the deepest condolence of the people and Government of Edo State as well as my personal commiseration to the families of the victims.
“Yakowa’s death is not only a great loss to the good people of Kaduna State whom he served so devotedly but also to the nation. He was a man of peace as his administration has ensured relative peace and stability in Kaduna despite the initial hiccups he faced.
“His passion and pride with which he embarked on the Kaduna renewal project has been most endearing.
“His contributions at several fora, including the Governors’ Forum, were invaluable. He always came up with pan-Nigeria ideas to help move the nation forward.”
On General Owoye Azazi, Oshiomhole said: “I had a very cordial and fruitful relationship with General Azazi. In all my dealings with him, he came across as a detribalized Nigerian who had a burning passion for the country.
“Azazi was an epitome of the saying: ‘an officer and a gentleman’ because despite his very senior rank in the Army and his position as NSA, he was very humble and unassuming.
“The death of these two fine gentlemen at this point is a colossal loss to the nation. We cannot question God, we however pray that He lays His consoling hand on the families the victims and grant eternal rest to the souls of the departed.”
