President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of a former lawmaker, businessman, statesman and prominent figure in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, Chief Ralph Obioha.
Tinubu, in a condolence message issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described Obioha as a patriot who made significant sacrifices for the restoration of democracy in Nigeria.
The President extended his condolences to Obioha’s family, community, the people of Abia State, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, members of the National Democratic Coalition and Nigerians mourning the deceased.
Tinubu said Obioha belonged to a generation of Nigerians who responded to the call of duty during some of the most difficult periods in the country’s history.
“As a founding member and prominent leader of NADECO, Chief Obioha stood firmly on the side of democratic governance during the struggle for the restoration of democracy following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election,” the President said.
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He noted that Obioha’s commitment to the pro-democracy struggle came at considerable personal cost, but that he remained committed to his convictions despite the pressures of the period.
“Despite the challenges and pressures of those difficult years, he remained steadfast in his belief that Nigeria’s destiny was inseparable from democracy, justice, constitutionalism and the right of the Nigerian people to choose their leaders,” Tinubu said.
The President said the contributions of Nigerians who stood firm during difficult periods in the country’s history must continue to be remembered.
“Chief Ralph Obioha was a courageous Nigerian who made sacrifices for democracy and remained committed to the ideals of a better Nigeria.
“His generation faced extraordinary challenges, and he played his part in defending the principles he believed would strengthen our democracy and our nation,” he added.
Tinubu described Obioha’s death as a loss to his family, community and the country, saying he would be remembered for his courage, convictions and service to Nigeria.
“His passing is a loss to his family, his community and the nation. We shall remember him for his courage, his convictions, his service and his belief in Nigeria,” the President stated.
He prayed for comfort for the deceased’s family and eternal rest for his soul.
“On behalf of the Federal Government and the people of Nigeria, I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. I pray that Almighty God grants them comfort and gives eternal rest to the soul of Chief Ralph Obioha,” Tinubu said.
The President added, “May the memory of Chief Ralph Obioha endure as a reminder that the building of a nation requires courage, sacrifice, conviction and faith.”
Tinubu mourns NADECO chieftain Ralph Obioha
