Buhari mourns late ex-first ladies, Aguiyi-Ironsi, Okpara

By LEON USIGBE, Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari extended deepest condolences to the Aguiyi-Ironsi family, government and people of Abia State on the passing of Chief Mrs Victoria Aguiyi-Ironsi, wife of the first military Head of State, Major General Johnson Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi.

In the same way, he has commiserated with the family of the late Dr Michael Okpara, Premier of Eastern Nigeria during the First Republic, on the passing of Lady Adanma Okpara.

A statement issued by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) Monday said the president affirmed that Lady Victoria’s incredible strength and exceptional courage during one of the darkest moments in our nation’s history pedestal her as a mother of the nation, God-fearing and a foremost woman of valour.

The president noted that the former first lady will be remembered for laying a solid foundation for women’s leadership role in the seat of power and as a founding member of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association: she passionately championed welfare and wellbeing of families of military officers.

It said the president recognised that 55 years after the death of General J.T Aguiyi-Ironsi, Lady Victoria never stopped working for the greater good of Nigeria, and for peace, stability, healing and reconciliation in the land.

According to the statement, President Buhari sincerely hoped that Lady Victoria’s labours for the country will not be in vain and joins all Nigerians in praying for the repose of the soul of the departed and comfort for those who mourn.

For the late Lady Okpara, a separate statement by Adesina said the president joined the government and people of Abia State and all Nigerians in mourning the passing of “an enterprising and disciplined mother, who was a worthy example of humility and hard work to her children and the many women she mentored in her community.”

As a recipient of several awards and honours from faith-based and humanitarian organizations, President Buhari affirmed that the late wife of the very formidable figure in the First Republic and Eastern Nigeria, led by example even after leaving public office.

The statement informed that President Buhari’s prayers and thoughts are with the family members, friends and members of the Knight of John Wesley (KJW) in the Methodist Church Nigeria, who will greatly miss her warmth, grace and depth of wisdom.

He prayed that God Almighty will grant the soul of the departed eternal rest.