President Jonathan, Atiku Mourn Arisekola-Alao

'On behalf of himself, the Federal Government and the people of Nigeria, President Jonathan extends sincere condolences to the Arisekola-Alao family as well as the people of Ibadan and Oyo State on the passing away of the famed Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland.

'As they mourn the famous entrepreneur, community and religious leader, President Jonathan urges his family, relatives, friends, associates and dependants to be comforted by the fact that Alhaji Arisekola-Alao lived a very fulfilled life, and in passing on, leaves behind a legacy of significant and commendable achievements.

'The President notes that Alhaji Arisekola-Alao will always be remembered and honoured, especially for the remarkable entrepreneurial skills with which he established many successful businesses and created jobs for numerous Nigerians, as well as for his religious leadership and philanthropic gestures.

'He prays that God Almighty will receive Alhaji Arisekola-Alao's soul and grant him eternal rest,' the statement signed Presidential spokesman Reuben Abati said.

Also, in a tribute, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said the demise of Arisekola-Alao was a loss to Nigeria.

Atiku said in a statement by his media office in Abuja that he was shocked and saddened by the death of Arisekola-Alao.

The former Vice President noted that the colourful and astute businessman was passionate about Nigeria.

“Arisekola was a devout Muslim and community leader. He was generous and loved his people; the quality of his humanity and compassion was unprecedented. The country will surely miss him,' Atiku said.

“I visited him recently after the death of his wife and he hosted me to lunch in his palatial Ibadan home. He related well with all Nigerians,' the Turakin Adamawa recalled.

He expressed his condolences to the family and people and government of Oyo state over the loss.