From Bamigbola Gbolagunte, Akure
Chairman of the South West Governors’ Forum and Ondo State Governor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu has described the late former head of National Interim Government, Chief Earnest Shonekan as a nationalist who was committed to the peace, progress and development of Nigeria.
The Governor said he received the news of the death of the elder statesman wth a heavy heart.
Governor Akeredolu described his death as a huge loss to the country, while noting that the vast experience of the elder statesman was an asset to the country, particularly with the array of challenges confronting the nation.
The Governor said the late Shonekan was committed to the peace and unity of the country, and pursued same with vigor and dedication as a patriot.
Akeredolu maintained that the service of the former Head of Interim National Government will never be forgotten in the annals of history of the country.
“Chief Ernest Shonekan was a Nationalist par excellence. His belief in a united and peaceful Nigeria was unparalleled. He was dedicated to the progress and development of the county. He will be sorely missed.
“His historic and patriotic role in maintaining the unity of the country was one of the many things that endeared him to many. He was indeed, an asset and his counsels were useful for national cohesion and progress,” he added.
Governor Akeredolu prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest, while commiserating with his wife, the government and people of Ogun State.