President Muhammadu Buhari has commiserated with his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa, over the demise of human rights activist, Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
The president, in a statement on Sunday by his Media Adviser, Femi Adesina, also condoled with South Africans and the global Christian body, particularly the Anglican Communion, over the passing of Archbishop Emeritus Tutu, 90, on Sunday, December 26, 2021.
While commiserating with Leah Tutu, the spouse of the spiritual leader and lifelong partner in the struggle against injustice, corruption and inequality, the Tutu family, board and staff of Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, Elders and Nobel Laureate Group, President Buhari took solace that the voice of the scholar and teacher, his published works, and inspirational quotes will resonate through generations, bringing more light and clarity to religious diversity, democracy and good governance.
The president believed the death of the iconic teacher, leader of thought, scholar and philanthropist further creates a void in a world in dire need of wisdom, integrity, courage and sound reasoning, which were qualities that the Nobel Peace Prize Winner, 1984, typified and exemplified in words and actions.
As a South African, global citizen and renowned world leader, the Nigerian leader affirmed that the historic role Archbishop Tutu played in the fight against apartheid, enduring physical assaults, jail terms and prolonged exile, took him beyond the pulpit to global, political relevance, and his position, under late President Nelson Mandela, in heading the Truth and Reconciliation Commission provided healing and direction for his country and the world.
President Buhari prayed for the repose of the soul of Archbishop Tutu, whose life and times sent an unforgettable message on love and forgiveness.
