President of the Nigerian Senate, Ahmad Lawan, has mourned former Head of the Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, who died on Tuesday at 85 years.

Senator Lawan also condoled with Chief Shonekan’s family, the Government and people of Ogun State on the death of the former Nigerian leader.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Senate President said “my condolences go to the family of Chief Shonekan, the Government and people of Ogun State and entire Nigeria over this great loss.

“Chief Shonekan was a lawyer, business captain, boardroom guru and statesman. However, he will be most remembered for heeding the nation’s call to duty at a very turbulent period in the history of Nigeria.”

He added that “Chief Shonekan’s services as Chairman of the Transitional Council and later as Head of the Interim National Government were selfless and contributed greatly to saving the Nigerian ship from hitting the rock.”

Lawan thereafter offered prayers for the repose of the soul of the elder statesman and for his loved ones, the fortitude to bear his loss.

Senator Mark mourns Shonekan, urges government to immortalise him.

Senator Mark urges government to immortalise Shonekan
Former President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator David Mark, described the former Interim Head of the Nigerian government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, as a patriot and gentleman who gave his all for the sake of Nigeria.

Reacting to the demise of the elder statesman in Abuja, Senator Mark recalled that Shonekan was appointed Head of the government during the critical period of national challenges to pilot the affairs of the nation.

Senator Mark noted the finesse, humane and due process Shonekan brought to bear during his short-lived tenure as Interim Head of State for the smooth administration of the Country.

He noted the entrepreneurial accomplishments of Shonekan as the Chairman of the United Africa Company (UAC) before he was appointed Head of the interim government as a technocrat to help find solutions to the political quagmire that arose after the annulment of June 12, 1993 presidential election.

Senator Mark said Shonekan will be remembered for his meritorious and selfless services to the nation especially during critical times.

He added that history will be kind to Shonekan for his bravery and contributions to the peace, unity and development of the nation.

The former Senate President urged the federal government to immortalise Shonekan as a leader who gave his all for the nation to remain peaceful and united.

Nneka Ukachukwu