The Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has expressed sadness over the death of a former Minister of Finance and Sardaunan Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, describing him as a distinguished statesman whose lifetime of service left an enduring legacy for Nigeria.
In a condolence message issued on Thursday, Adebayo said he received the news of the elder statesman’s passing at the age of 94 with profound sadness, noting that Nigeria had lost one of its most accomplished public servants and patriotic leaders.
He said the late Sardaunan Sokoto’s decades of service, including his tenure as Minister of Finance, Permanent Secretary and Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, were marked by wisdom, integrity and an unwavering commitment to national development.
“Nigeria has lost a distinguished statesman, accomplished public servant and patriotic leader whose remarkable career in public service left an enduring legacy,” Adebayo said.
The SDP flag bearer described the late elder statesman as a man whose life was defined by honour, humility and selfless service, adding that his contributions to Nigeria’s development and the preservation of the traditions of the Sokoto Caliphate would continue to inspire future generations.
On behalf of his family and supporters, Adebayo extended his condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultanate Council, the Sokoto State Government led by Governor Ahmed Aliyu, and all Nigerians mourning the loss.
He prayed that Almighty Allah forgives the late Sardaunan’s shortcomings, accepts his good deeds and grants him Aljannatul Firdaus.
Adebayo also prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family, the Sultanate Council and the nation, describing the late elder statesman as a national icon whose exemplary service and patriotism would remain a lasting reference point in Nigeria’s history.
He concluded his message with the Islamic prayer: “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un,” affirming the belief that all souls ultimately return to their Creator.
