What does OBJ think: Atiku, Ben Bruce, others express shock over the death of former minister

The death of Chief Ojo Maduekwe, a former foreign affairs minister and a stalwart of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, came as a surprise to many.

He was said to have fallen ill on a flight from Dubai and was rushed to the hospital as soon as the plane landed in Abuja where he passed away before doctors could attend to him.

Family, friends and associates were thrown into mourning following his death and tributes and condolence messages have been pouring in for the former minister.

READ ALSO: Breaking! Ojo Maduekwe is dead

Following his sudden demise, Nigerians especially politicians expressed shock and disbelief over death.

Atiku Abubukar, a former vice president said he was saddened by Maduekwe’s death, while praying for his soul to rest in peace.

“I am deeply saddened by the demise of Chief Ojo Maduekwe. He was a good friend. I wish his family fortitude to bear this loss. May he rest in peace,” he said.

Also speaking, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce said Nigeria had lost a gentleman administrator.

Ah, Ojo Maduekwe! Nigeria has lost a gentleman administrator who knew how to keep a calm head in troubled times. May his soul rest in peace!

— Ben Murray-Bruce (@benmurraybruce) June 29, 2016

On his part, Senator Shehu Sani described the deceased as a champion of citizen diplomacy.

Ojo Maduekwe;Champion of Citizen diplomacy and one of Nigeria’s foremost political intellectual,Adieu!!! — Senator Shehu Sani (@shehusani) June 29, 2016

In reaction, his party said his passing comes at a time when his calming influence is required.

Chief Ojo Maduekwe’s passing comes at a time when his calming influence is required. He will be sorely missed.

— PDP Nigeria (@PdpNigeria) June 30, 2016

Other Nigerians have taken to social media to share their condolence message.

So shocked at the sudden death of my former colleague in Government – Chief Ojo Maduekwe. Lord, please comfort Ucha & entire family.???? — Oby Ezekwesili (@obyezeks) June 30, 2016

Chief Ojo Maduekwe was a patriotic Nigerian, good diplomat, & politician. My condolences to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/m5xJViOmoK

— Dr. Aminu Gamawa (@aminugamawa) June 30, 2016

I felt the deep hurt of losing an icon like Ojo Maduekwe. We just have few honest leaders left. Adieu!!! — Cyriacus™ (@Cyrakk) June 30, 2016

I said few pple can survive immediate past admin without stealing; Late Ojo Maduekwe could be one of them.
Very flexible politician though.

— Mallam Adamu Hayatu™ (@AHayatu) June 30, 2016

If you have anything against Ojo Maduekwe, I think it should be his fluidity in Nigerian politics. Corruption was never traced to him. — #BringBackOurGirls (@Nedunaija) June 30, 2016

I want to hear OBJ say something about Ojo Maduekwe. I want to know what the ex-president thinks about him.

— #BringBackOurGirls (@Nedunaija) June 30, 2016

Ojo Maduekwe, CFR Fare thee well great colossus. You will be missed. Thank you for the love you showed me. Okeosisi adaa. — Sam Hart (@hartng) June 30, 2016

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