President Jonathan mourns Umaru Dikko

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Tuesday expressed sadness at the news of the passing away of prominent politician and elder statesman, Alhaji Umaru Dikko.

The President, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, also extended sincere commiserations to the family, friends and political associates of the former Minister of Transport during the Second Republic who also played a leading role in the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) which controlled the Federal Government during the dispensation.

The statement added that Jonathan 'joined them in mourning the renowned political leader who, in spite of advanced age, continued to actively contribute to the nurturing and strengthening of democracy in Nigeria until the end of his life.'

'President Jonathan said he firmly believes that Dikko's significant contributions, especially his life-long advocacy for stronger political parties, greater discipline within political parties and the supremacy of political parties, have assured him a place in the annals of Nigeria's political development.

'He therefore prayed that God Almighty will receive Dikko's soul and grant him eternal rest.'