Olu Samuel, Lokoja

The Kogi state government has expressed deep condolences on the demise of elder statesman and a former Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen.Alex Usman Kadiri at the age of 82.

The late Sen. Kadiri who represented Kogi East Senatorial District in the Senate between 1999 and 2007 was said to have died on Thursday in Abuja.

A statement issued on Friday and made available to Newsmen in Lokoja by the state Commissioner for information, Kingsley Fanwo described late Alex Kadiri as a distinguished patriot who was passionate about the development of the state and the nation.

“Before his excellent representation in the Red Chambers, he had served as a Director General at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources”. The Commissioner noted

He said that In his public and private life, the late political and community leader was a constant voice for equity, justice and development, exuding the proper Kogi spirit of excellence.

“His aspiration to lead Kogi State exemplified his desire to contribute to the development of the State. He was a shining light from our dear State. The Governor, His Excellency Alh Ahmed Usman Ododo has expressed his determination to immortalize the spirit of the late Dr Kadiri by ensuring good governance, unity and development in our dear state. Even at 82, it was our wish to still have our late elder statesman around in order for the Kogi State Government to continue to benefit from his wealth of experience and enthusiastic readiness to give a hand of support for development. We urge young Kogites to imbibe the exemplary lifestyle and impeccable track record of the late Senator Alex Usman Kadiri”. He said

“Our thoughts are with his immediate family, the people of Igalaland, Kogi State and Nigerians at large as we mourn a political colossus and a development advocate”. He added.