President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-President Goodluck Jonathan have condoled with President Cyril Ramaphosa, South Africans and the global Christian body, particularly Anglican Communion, over passing of Archbishop Emeritus, Desmond Tutu, which occurred on Sunday, December 26, 2021.
In a condolence message, President Buhari stated that the death of the iconic teacher, human rights activist, leader of thought, scholar and philanthropist, would create 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.
He noted 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 President Nelson Mandela, in heading the Truth and Reconciliation Commission provided healing and direction for his country and the world.
President Buhari commiserated 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, urging 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 prayed for the repose of the soul of Archbishop Tutu, whose life and times sent an unforgettable message on love and forgiveness.
In his tribute to Bishop Desmond Tutu, ex-president Jonathan, stated that Bishop Tutu was a Nobel peace laureate and a global champion of peace, human rights and reconciliation, who lived a dedicated life of service to God and humanity.
He added; “As a preacher, Bishop Tutu was a great teacher,who used his privileged position not only to win souls and make disciples but also to mobilize and advocate for the freedom of the people of South Africa and promote justice and democracy across the continent”.
“Africa and indeed the rest of the world will miss Bishop Tutu as he was the continent’s foremost voice of reason and conscience”, he said.
