By Ernest Zhokwo & Ali Atabor
Sympathisers and prominent personalities from far and near attended the Eight days Islamic prayer for the late Former Chief of Defence Staff,CDS, Admiral Ibrahim Ogohi at his country home, Okura- Lafiya in Dekina Local Government Area.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in a condolence message, described the late Admiral Ibrahim Ogohi as a nationalist, who contributed to the development of peace and unity of the country.
The President message which was delivered by the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu, President Tinubu condoled with the Government and people of Kogi state as well as the family over the demise of one of their illustrious sons, Admiral Ibrahim Ogohi.
In his own message at the prayer ceremony, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, said the late Admiral Ibrahim Ogohi would be remembered for his numerous roles towards the greatness of the nation and his home State.
Governor Ododo who was represented by the State Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo, said the deceased lived worthy legacies that should inspire the spirit of commitment, selflessness, loyalty and discipline among the present generation.
Governor Ododo stated that the Igala nation, the state and the country as a whole has lost an icon and elder statesman at a period his wise counsel was needed to confront the some of the challenges plaguing the nation.
The Governor pointed out that the deceased worked tirelessly for the progress of Kogi state, and listed some of the of the legacies of the deceased to include the establishment of Naval Base in Lokoja,Idah and the establishment of the Naval Secondary School in Okura.
He encouraged the bereaved family to be comforted that the late former CDS lived a fulfilled and glorious life, praying God to grant his soul eternal bliss.
The Chief Imam of Okura -Olafia Central Mosque who led the prayer session, Musa Shaibu, enjoined Muslims to always show empathy for one another, reminding all that death comes without notification, hence we should be prepared to answer the last call in the state of purity.
Speaking on behalf of the family of the deceased, a Former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Jibrin Usman said the late former Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Ibrahim Ogohi was a generous and friendly personality and said his death has left a huge gap in the family circle.
Vice Admiral Usman thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sending a high ranking cabinet member minister to deliver his condolence message to the family.
The former Chief of the Naval Staff also thanked the Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo , legislators and other top Government officials for attending the ceremony.
