The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, for the 2027 general election, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has mourned the passing of the Sardaunan Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji.
Alhaji died on Thursday morning at a hospital in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, after a brief illness at the age of 88.
In a statement on Thursday, Adebayo described the late minister as a distinguished statesman whose lifetime of service left an enduring legacy for Nigeria.
The presidential candidate said he received the news of the elder statesman’s with profound sadness, noting that Nigeria had lost one of its most accomplished public servants and patriotic leaders.
According to him, the late Sardaunan Sokoto’s decades of service to the country, including his roles as Minister of Finance, Permanent Secretary and Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, were marked by wisdom, integrity and an unwavering commitment to national development.
“Nigeria has lost a distinguished statesman, accomplished public servant, and patriotic leader whose remarkable career in public service left an enduring legacy,” Adebayo said.
The SDP flag bearer said the late statesman lived a life defined by honour, humility and selfless service, adding that his contributions to Nigeria’s development and the preservation of the traditions of the Sokoto Caliphate would continue to inspire generations.
Adebayo extended the condolences of his family and supporters to the deceased’s family, the Sultanate Council, the Government and people of Sokoto State and all Nigerians mourning the loss.
He prayed that Almighty Allah forgives the late Sardaunan’s shortcomings, accepts his good deeds and grants him Aljannatul Firdaus.
