Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Muhammadu Buhari has described the late former President of Kenya, Arap Moi as “a frontline nationalist who gave his best for the development of his country and was a key factor in the stability of the East African region and Africa in general.”
The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina said Buhariin a message of condolence to President Uhuru Kenyatta, the government and the people of Kenya, President Buhari said: “From a humble beginning (as a school teacher), the late Arap Moi became a politician, a committed democrat, was elected president, upheld the values of democracy and worked for its sustenance throughout his lifetime.”
Buhari recalled that the longest serving president of the country voluntarily handed over to his successor in 2002 in an election having ruled the country since 1978, a feat that was uncommon at that time.
The president urged Kenyans to uphold the ideals of love, peace, progress, unity and loyalty that the late statesman stood for even as he calls on other African leaders to emulate these virtues.
He prayed that God Almighty will repose his soul and comfort family and friends as they mourn the departed statesman.