Uduaghan, Ihedioha Mourn Senator Balat

BEVERLY HILLS, February 19, (THEWILL) - Delta State Governor, Dr.

Emmanuel Uduaghan has expressed sadness at the death of Senator Isaiah Balat, a former Minister of Works and Special Adviser to Vice President Namadi Sambo.

In a statement issued in Lagos by Felix Ofou, his Press Secretary, the Governor described the late minister as a "Quintessential leader, patriot and astute politician", whose death would remain a tragic loss for a long time in the annals of Nigeria's history.

Uduaghan recalled with nostalgia vast knowledge displayed by the deceased during personal interactions between the late politician and himself in the course of strategic interface with Vice President Sambo, pointing out that the experience left lasting impressions that he was dealing with a great Nigerian.

"He was an embodiment of knowledge and wisdom.
His experience as a former senator and minister proved very useful in our constant interaction with the Vice President (Sambo).

I feel a personal loss and I truly sympathise with many people that are affected by this incident," he lamented.

The governor particularly extended condolences to Vice President Sambo, the government and people of Kaduna State as well as the immediate family of the late politician who are undoubtedly affected by the loss.

"The government and people of Delta State share in their pain.

We are as affected as anyone who truly knew the worth of the man to the nation', he said while praying that God give them fortitude to bear the effect of the former minister's death.

Ihedioha Rues Balat's Death Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt.

Hon.
Emeka Ihedioha, CON, has expressed shock and sadness at the death of Balat.

The deputy speaker described the late Balat as a bridge builder and peace-loving politician whose wealth of knowledge and experience would have been very much needed in the polity generally and especially in Kaduna State where he towered as a political pillar of sorts.

He conveyed his condolences to the Balat family, the presidency as well as the government and people of Kaduna State where the late politician hailed from.

'My personal interface with the late Senator Isaiah Balat afforded me an opportunity to appreciate his maturity and wisdom in dealing with national issues.

Losing such an admirable and respected person at this time is indeed tragic and a big loss to his family, the presidency, Kaduna State and indeed the entire country,' said Ihedioha.

He prayed God Almighty to grant the soul of the deceased eternal rest while enjoining his family and relatives to receive the sad occurrence as an act of God who in his infinite mercies is able to grant them succour and the fortitude to bear the loss.